Penn State's evolving offensive depth chart requires new starters at both tackle positions, center and receiver. Perhaps less glaring due to the return of fifth-year senior Tyler Warren, the Nittany Lions are also evaluating which tight ends are best prepared to make an impact alongside him this season.
Redshirt junior Khalil Dinkins carries the edge in experience and seniority, while redshirt sophomore Jerry Cross (13 offensive snaps in 2023) and redshirt freshman Joey Schlaffer (no game appearances) are attempting to work their way toward opportunities. Plus, five-star Class of 2024 recruit Luke Reynolds has packed on more than 25 pounds since January enrollment.
Among this collection of talent, Andrew Rappleyea continues to turn heads as a second-year tight end. Although he was limited to three matchups as a freshman, members of the Penn State staff have repeatedly acknowledged he was prepared to be a factor in Year 1, when current New York Giants rookie Theo Johnson was a co-starter with Warren.
"He definitely could've played last year for us," said a program source.
Rappleyea actually led all freshmen offensive skill players in game snaps last season, but it wasn't a big total. He checked in for 31 offensive snaps without catching a pass, trailing positional peers Warren (696), Johnson (627) and Dinkins (142).
Rappleyea has acknowledged that he learned a lot during that first year, particularly from observing the veterans go about their daily business. Despite the reality that Warren will command the large bulk of looks at tight end, he was energized by the senior's decision to spurn 2024 NFL Draft possibilities and provide another season of mentorship on campus.
As usual, Penn State won't shy away from implementing (or starting) multiple tight ends on the field together. Rappleyea is building off a strong spring to further make his case in fall camp.
"I think he's gonna be a dominant player when it's his time," said one practice observer. "And that time could be this season. He's put himself in a position to play."
Standing 6-foot-4, 250 pounds, Rappleyea is nearly 40 pounds heavier than when he committed to the Nittany Lions in 2022, ranking as the No. 10 tight end in his class. Established as a high-level pass catcher early in the recruitment process, he placed major emphasis on becoming a reliable blocker as his prep career concluded at Milton Academy in Massachusetts. Those efforts have sustained in State College, where he's drawn comparisons to former standouts Brenton Strange and Pat Freiermuth.
MORE: Penn State football practice notes and observations from preseason camp
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