Another Penn State defensive lineman entering transfer portal
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Penn State’s defensive line will have a very new look in 2026. In addition to losing some key players to the NFL and seeing one of its top rising stars decide to enter the transfer portal, another key player has decided to test the transfer waters. Xavier Gilliam is about to enter the transfer portal, according to Lions247.
Gilliam is the fourth defensive lineman from Penn State’s roster to make a move to the transfer portal. He joins Chaz Coleman, Zuriah Fisher, and Daniel Jennings as players set to explore their transfer options. Gilliam, a member of Penn State’s Class of 2024, is coming off his redshirt freshman season and saw his role on the defensive line rise. Although he was not designated as a starter for the season, he saw significant playing time this year and started the Pinstripe Bowl.
It is still possible Gilliam could return to Penn State, although most players who enter the transfer portal do eventually move on. The NCAA transfer portal window opens on Jan. 2 and closes on Jan. 16.
Penn State is also losing defensive line coach Deion Barnes this year. Barnes is leaving the Penn State staff to take on the same role with South Carolina.
Other notable Penn State defensive linemen moving on to the NFL include Zane Durant, Dani Dennis-Sutton, and Alonzo Ford.
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This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: Penn State DL Xavier Gilliam to enter NCAA transfer portal
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