Penn State TE Andrew Rappleyea announces decision for 2026

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Another rising member of the Penn State offense has announced his return to the Nittany Lions in 2026. Tight end Andrew Rappleyea is the latest to confirm his status with the program going into the new year before the NCAA transfer portal opens up.

Rappleyea took to social media to thank former head coach James Franklin and former tight ends coach Ty Howle for helping him get started at Penn State.

“I want to take a moment to thank Coach Howle and Coach Franklin for their contributions to my Penn State journey, helping me grow immensely both as a player and, more importantly, as a man. I will forever be grateful for that,” Rappleyea said in his released statement. “With that being said, I’m excited to announce I will be returning to Penn State next season.”

Rappleyea had a strong finish to the 2025 season with all three of his touchdowns coming in the final three games of the season, including a key fourth-quarter touchdown against Clemson in the Pinstripe Bowl. Rappleyea had 75 receiving yards in a regular-season finale against Rutgers as well. Together with Luke Reynolds, Penn State could have. apotentially solid tight end combo for the offense in 2026.

Rappleyea’s announcement to return in 2026 follows similar announcements from offensive linemen Cooper Cousions and Anthony Donkoh.

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This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: Penn State tight end Andrew Rappleyea announces return in 2026

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