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As the Nittany Lions enter the final phases of their spring practices, head coach James Franklin confirmed that Curtis Jacobs is getting reps with the first-team and is expected to get the start in 2021.
Jacobs was Penn State’s top recruit for the 2020 class and third-ranked outside linebacker in the country coming out of high school, according to 247 Sports.
During his weekly press conference on Wednesday, Franklin stated his decision with Jacobs is based on performance during spring practices. With Micah Parsons heading to the draft, and Jacobs’ lack of experience as a freshman, this a big move for the Nittany Lions to continue their success at the linebacker position.
Penn State’s Brandon Smith will continue to lead the linebacker core heading into this season as he and Jacobs are expected to play both outside linebacker roles.
The Nittany Lions should be excited to see Jacobs has excelled during his first full spring practices. At 6-foot-1 and 227 pounds, Franklin and company will want to use him as a pass coverage backer who can stick on running backs, wide receivers or tight ends. On the other hand, Smith can be that run stopping linebacker with his 6-foot-3, 240 pound frame.
Be on the lookout for Jacobs in this year’s Blue-White Game scheduled for April 17.
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