REPORT: Penn State setback injury expected to play key role in offense
James Franklin recently shared some encouraging news about Penn State’s wide receiver group, noting that a few fourth-year players have stepped up during August.
With the West Virginia opener just two weeks away, there have been other notable developments regarding Penn State players, both veterans and newcomers:
**Dinkins’ Impact When Healthy**
Fourth-year tight end Khalil Dinkins has shown efficiency despite limited opportunities over the past two seasons. The North Allegheny standout has recorded three touchdowns on just nine career receptions. With Theo Johnson no longer in the mix, Dinkins is expected to take on a larger role. Franklin mentioned earlier this week that the 6-4, 253-pound Dinkins isn’t at full health.
“He’s had some bumps and bruises,” Franklin said. “He’s missed some time. But he’s a big, strong, fast, aggressive player. He’s been productive with the reps he’s had, but he’s missed some time. We need to get him back soon because he could play a significant role in our offense.”
**Ford Ready to Contribute**
Penn State has considerable depth at defensive tackle, with sixth-year players Dvon J-Thomas and Hakeem Beamon returning, along with promising third-year player Zane Durant. Another player to watch is Alonzo Ford, an Old Dominion transfer who missed all of last season due to an undisclosed injury. Before 2023, the 6-foot-2, 319-pound Ford started 25 games over his final two seasons with the Monarchs.
“He’s been a really pleasant surprise,” Franklin recently said of Ford. “He’s very good against the run. As he gains confidence and gets his body back in shape after his injury, I think he’ll continue to improve. He has a natural understanding of run defense, keys, pad level, and hand placement. He’s been good.”
**Praise for Grunkemeyer**
A month ago, Franklin expressed concern about second-year quarterback Jaxon Smolik’s availability for August practices as he recovers from a significant offseason injury. This situation provided an opportunity for January enrollee Ethan Grunkemeyer to get more reps as the No. 3 quarterback heading into the season.
Beau Pribula noted that the freshman has had a productive offseason at State College.
“He’s done a good job since he early enrolled,” Pribula said of the 6-2, 207-pound Grunkemeyer. “He had a solid spring ball and continues to improve. For Drew (Allar) and me, being the older guys in the room, it’s important for us to mentor him and help his development.”