A member of Penn State football’s first national championship team is returning to his alma mater, joining the staff
The Penn State Nittany Lions have long been a breeding ground for football talent, not only on the field but also along the sidelines. In recent years, several former Penn State defenders have transitioned into coaching roles, bringing their on-field experience and leadership back to the sport. This trend underscores the program’s enduring influence and the strong bond its alumni maintain with the game.
D’Anton Lynn: From Nittany Lion to USC Defensive Coordinator
One of the most notable recent appointments is that of D’Anton Lynn, a former Penn State cornerback who played under Coach Joe Paterno from 2008 to 2011. During his collegiate career, Lynn earned three All-Big Ten honorable mentions, amassing 162 tackles and four interceptions. After a nine-year stint coaching in the NFL, Lynn took on the role of defensive coordinator at UCLA, where he significantly improved the Bruins’ defense, elevating them to the 11th-ranked unit in total defense nationally. His success at UCLA led to his appointment as the defensive coordinator for the USC Trojans in December 2023. This move is particularly intriguing as USC is set to join the Big Ten Conference, meaning Lynn will soon face his alma mater from the opposing sideline.
Michael Mauti and Jordan Hill: Reuniting at Trinity High School
Former teammates Michael Mauti and Jordan Hill have also ventured into coaching, reuniting at Trinity High School in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. Mauti, a standout linebacker for the Nittany Lions, recently joined Hill’s coaching staff as the assistant head coach. Hill, who took over as Trinity’s head coach in 2021, led the team to a district championship and a state semifinal appearance in 2022. Their collaboration aims to leverage their shared experiences and passion for the game to mentor young athletes.
Jan Johnson: Advancing at Virginia Tech
Jan Johnson, another former Penn State linebacker, has continued his coaching journey by taking on a graduate assistant role at Virginia Tech under head coach Brent Pry, who previously served as Penn State’s defensive coordinator. Johnson’s transition from a defensive analyst to a graduate assistant reflects his growing responsibilities and commitment to developing his coaching acumen.
Calvin Lowry: Returning to Happy Valley
Calvin Lowry, a former Penn State safety who played from 2001 to 2005, has returned to his alma mater as an offensive analyst and analytics coordinator. After a professional playing career and coaching stints at Baylor and Tulsa, Lowry brings a wealth of experience to the Nittany Lions’ coaching staff. His return to Penn State signifies a full-circle moment, contributing to the program’s ongoing success.
Camren Wynter: From Player to Coach at Temple University
In the realm of basketball, former Penn State guard Camren Wynter has embarked on a coaching career by joining Temple University’s staff as a special assistant to head coach Adam Fisher. Wynter’s transition from player to coach allows him to impart his knowledge and experience to the next generation of athletes, highlighting the versatility and leadership cultivated during his time at Penn State.
Herb Hand: Offensive Line Expertise at Florida State University
Herb Hand, who served as Penn State’s run game coordinator and offensive line coach from 2014 to 2015, has been appointed as the offensive line coach at Florida State University. With over 25 years of coaching experience, Hand is renowned for developing top-performing offensive line units and has a reputable history of enhancing run games across various programs. His tenure at Penn State included mentoring standout players like Saquon Barkley and Donovan Smith, contributing to the Nittany Lions’ offensive prowess during his time.
These developments underscore the profound impact that Penn State’s football program has on its players, instilling in them a deep understanding of the game and a passion for mentorship. As these former defenders transition into coaching roles, they carry forward the legacy of excellence and leadership that defines Penn State football, influencing the next generation of athletes across various levels of the sport.
