Penn State picked up a transfer commitment from an intraconference rival on Tuesday evening.
Former Ohio State running back James Peoples pledged to the Nittany Lions, becoming the 24th portal addition in the last few days, and bringing some proven Big Ten production to Happy Valley.
While Peoples was never the primary back, he saw meaningful playing time each of the last two seasons, totaling 110 carries for 541 yards and five touchdowns. He showcased his versatility as a pass-catcher with 10 receptions for 50 yards in 2025. Against Penn State, Peoples had four carries for 19 yards.
Peoples was ranked as a four-star recruit and consensus top-10 running back in the 2024 class but was downgraded to a three-star transfer by 247Sports. The San Antonio, Texas, native graded as an above-average runner in both season by PFF, but posted poor pass-blocking grades, allowing two sacks on just 16 reps.
Iowa State transfer Carson Hansen and returner Quinton Martin Jr. are expected to compete for the starting role, though Peoples may make a run at the top of the depth chart as well.
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