Penn State offers All-Big Ten WR in the transfer portal

Penn State football has obvious needs in the transfer portal this offseason. But none are more prominent than the need at WR. The Nittany Lions are looking for a clear difference-maker who can help take the passing attack to the next level in year two under Drew Allar. Where better to start the search than with players who had success on the field against Penn State in 2023? That’s exactly what James Franklin has done, extending an offer to All-Big Ten WR Donaven McCulley, who had a career day against the Nittany Lions as a member of the Indiana Hoosiers in October.

Penn State football offers All-Big Ten WR Donaven McCulley in transfer portal

The Nittany Lions’ October 28 game versus Indiana is one that many Penn State football fans likely want to forget. Coming off a heartbreaking loss to Ohio State, Penn State suffered a hangover effect against the Hoosiers. The Nittany Lions gave up several uncharacteristic broken touchdown plays on defense, and needed late-game heroics from Drew Allar and KeAndre Lamber-Smith to emerge with a 33-24 win.

Well, Penn State football may need to take a second look at some of those long scores racked up by the Hoosiers. On November 28, Indiana WR Donaven McCulley entered his name into the transfer portal. An All-Big Ten Honorable mention this fall, McCulley had a breakout season in 2023. He caught 48 passes for 644 yards and six touchdowns as part of a struggling Hoosiers offense this year.

Against the Nittany Lions, McCulley snagged four catches for 96 yards, including a career-best 69-yard touchdown reception. Evidently, this performance left a strong impression on the Penn State football coaching staff. On Tuesday, the All-Big Ten WR announced that he received an offer from the Nittany Lions.