Overview
- Rappleyea announced on social media that he will stay at Penn State in 2026, thanking former coach James Franklin and ex–tight ends coach Ty Howle in his statement.
- The redshirt sophomore capped 2025 with 20 receptions for 180 yards and three touchdowns, scoring in each of the final three games including the Pinstripe Bowl against Clemson.
- He committed to work under new head coach Matt Campbell, with offensive coordinator Taylor Mouser carrying a title that includes oversight of tight ends.
- His return follows retention announcements from offensive linemen Cooper Cousins and Anthony Donkoh, reinforcing efforts to stabilize the roster.
- The tight end room is being reshaped as position coach Ty Howle departs for Virginia Tech and Khalil Dinkins pursues the next level, with portal activity still to come.