Penn State is making a significant move by adding a talented tight end from Iowa State to its 2026 roster through the transfer portal. And here’s where it gets interesting—the player in question is Benjamin Brahmer, an All-Big 12 performer who has quickly caught the attention of college football fans. Brahmer, who entered the transfer portal right when it opened on January 2, wasted no time in signaling his intentions, making it clear he was planning to follow head coach Matt Campbell and offensive coordinator and tight ends coach Taylor Mouser to State College. And that’s exactly what he intends to do.
Hailing from Pierce, Nebraska, Brahmer’s brief stay in the transfer portal concluded swiftly with his commitment to Penn State, according to Hayes Fawcett from On3. With one year of eligibility remaining, this move might just be a game-changer for the Nittany Lions’ upcoming season.
During his final season in 2025, Brahmer showcased his receiving skills by catching 37 passes for a total of 446 yards and scoring six touchdowns. His performance didn’t go unnoticed, earning him recognition within the conference. The previous year, in 2024, he caught 10 passes for 179 yards and an individual touchdown, and in 2023, he made 28 receptions for 352 yards along with two scores. His impressive freshman campaign was highlighted by his inclusion on The Athletic’s all-American freshman team.
According to the On3 Industry Transfer Portal Rankings, Brahmer is considered the top tight end available and ranks as the 29th best player overall in this year's portal. Notably, he was a semifinalist for the 2024 Mackey Award, which is awarded annually to college football’s top tight end, underscoring his talent and potential impact.
For fans eager to follow every development in Penn State football—from coaching staff updates to recruiting and portal moves—the team’s next chapter is unfolding rapidly. Campbell’s presence at Penn State adds an intriguing layer of anticipation for what lies ahead. If you're not already a subscriber, now’s a great time to join Blue-White Illustrated and gain access to exclusive insights from experts like Sean Fitz, Nate Bauer, Ryan Snyder, and many more. Subscribing opens doors to premium analysis, insider rumors, and detailed recruiting reports. Stay ahead of the game—sign up today to help shape the future of Penn State football.
