Updated 10 p.m. Dec. 5.
Terry Smith isn’t going anywhere.
Penn State’s interim head coach will remain on staff under newly hired head coach Matt Campbell, Athletic Director Pat Kraft confirmed in a statement on Friday night. ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported he’s agreed to a four-year deal, half the duration of Campbell’s eight-year contract.
While Kraft did not indicate what role Smith would have, Lions 247 reported Smith will be the associate head coach and lead assistant.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to Coach Terry Smith for stepping up when we needed him the most and for rallying our team to finish this season with three straight wins,” Kraft said. “Coach Smith bleeds blue and white and pours his entire heart and soul into Penn State Football. I’m deeply grateful for his commitment to our University, and I am excited that he will continue to be a part of this program.”
Smith took over midway through the season after James Franklin was fired and led the Nittany Lions to a 3-3 record, clinching bowl eligibility.
The former Penn State wide receiver was previously asked about his future and stated “I love Penn State. I would examine any position to stay at Penn State.” He reportedly received head coaching interest from Memphis and UConn, and joining Franklin at Virginia Tech was also a possibility.
Smith was in his 12th season as the team’s cornerbacks coach and fifth holding an associate head coach title when he was named the interim. He made it clear throughout the search process that he wanted consideration for the head coaching role and increasingly drew support from players and fans.
Following the team’s 37-10 win over Nebraska, players held up “Hire Terry Smith” signs on the field, while fans chanted his name as he departed through the team tunnel. More signs were seen after Penn State beat Rutgers last Saturday, and a plane flew overhead displaying a banner with the same message.
Linebacker Tony Rojas frequently campaigned for Smith on social media, even writing “We stand with Terry Smith or nobody else, that simple” in a now-deleted X post. Quarterback Drew Allar reposted Rojas’ statement and former Nittany Lions Jaquan Brisker and Dvon J-Thomas also voiced their support.
While it’s unknown what title he’ll hold, keeping Smith on staff will likely help with player retention, as many have expressed a desire to continue playing for him. Smith also plays a major role in the team’s recruiting effort.
