King Mack is back! Penn State might have lost the college football playoff semis but has already won the transfer portal. The Lions are making strides, and their latest addition also screams how ambitious they are. But if you must have read the headlines, you would remember the former James Franklin personnel for different reasons.

Mack had last year jumped ship when he joined the Alabama program last year after making the switch from Penn State. While the Lions suffered from a lack of resources at the safety, Mack flourished in his newfound home. But amusingly, he attracted negative limelight in the Crimson Tide when they fought Tennessee. Kalen DeBoer was at the end of his wits when he found the officials rigid in allowing him to make substitutions. That’s where Mack came in.

188-pound safety took the field and faked an injury, allowing the game to slow down and eventually stop. But all didn’t go DeBoer’s way, as his side received a flag for an illegal substitution. What about Mack? The crowd gave him a mouthful. If you would have watched the game, you must have heard the loud boos. But the Lions will look for a different role for him.

The Rivals announced the transfer on their X handle. The post read, “RETURN OF THE MACK. Former 4 ⭐️ safety King Mack is transferring BACK to Penn State after spending the 2024 season at Alabama.”

The Florida native bloomed in his role and made the team sheet in all 13 games during his one season at Penn State, registering 3 tackles. He shifted the base in May 2024 and racked up 14 tackles. Adding him to the squad will ease Penn State’s plans, as they can now focus on their glaring issue—wide receivers.

Penn State and their hopes of a college football natty this year

What if you got to know that only wide receivers recorded more than 400 receiving yards this season—Harrison Wallace III and Omari Evans? What’s more? In the Orange Bowl, none of its wide receivers had a catch. But if you only look at the Lions’ transfer portal business, they have already added two receivers—USC transfer Kyron Hudson and Troy’s Devonte Ross.

Then comes the second issue of a defensive line. Penn State has only added one name there: Texas A&M edge rusher Enai White. That’s not only it. They have missed some of their primary targets, such as Jay’viar Suggs. When you look at the QB position, Drew Allar is returning for his senior year and has let go of his NFL ambitions. At least, that’s what the popular stance is as of now. But the real question is, how can you replace the likes of Abdul Carter and Tyler Warren? Both are set to be the first-round NFL draft picks.

However, Penn State has a strong roaster, a robust foundation, and Franklin at the helm. With the addition of Mack, you can expect them to be more competitive. Are they early contenders for the 2025 season? It’s too early to call. But you will surely keep them in the mix.