Breaking: NCAA Hits Penn State Nittany Lions with Penalty for Rule Violation — Team to Pay Financial Penalty
May 23, 2025 | By SportsWire Staff
STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — The NCAA has imposed a financial penalty on Penn State University’s Nittany Lions football program following the conclusion of an investigation into a series of rule violations, the organization announced Friday morning.
According to the NCAA’s official report, the violations centered around “improper recruiting activities and lack of institutional control,” spanning from early 2023 through mid-2024. The infractions reportedly involved unauthorized contact with prospective student-athletes and the use of impermissible benefits to entice recruits.
As part of the disciplinary measures, the NCAA has levied a $1.25 million fine on the university, along with other sanctions that include a reduction in official recruiting visits for the 2025 and 2026 seasons, a temporary suspension of two assistant coaches, and a formal reprimand issued to the athletic department.
“The NCAA is committed to maintaining a level playing field,” said Committee on Infractions Chair Karen Blackburn in a statement. “Institutions that fail to comply with established recruiting rules undermine the fairness and integrity of collegiate athletics. Penn State has acknowledged these missteps and cooperated fully during our review.”
Penn State Athletic Director Marcus Walker issued a statement following the announcement:
“We accept the NCAA’s findings and take full responsibility for the violations that occurred. While these actions do not reflect the values of our athletic department, we are using this as a moment to reinforce our commitment to compliance and ethical standards moving forward.”
Head Coach Darnell Franklin, who was not personally implicated in the violations, also commented on the matter, emphasizing the team’s focus on moving forward. “We’re taking this seriously and making the necessary adjustments. Our focus now is on learning from this and ensuring we build a program that reflects integrity on and off the field.”
The NCAA stopped short of imposing a postseason ban, citing the university’s prompt self-reporting and cooperation. However, the sanctions are expected to impact the team’s short-term recruiting efforts and internal operations.
More details are expected as Penn State outlines its plan to comply with the penalties and prevent future violations.
