Penn State alumnus Micah Parsons stepped in following the dismissal of former head coach James Franklin, who was let go after the team faced three consecutive losses on Sunday.
The linebacker for the Packers expressed that Franklin, who received a buyout of $49 million after 12 seasons with the program, “deserves better.”
“Regardless of what’s going on, this doesn’t sit right with me! The coach deserves better!” Parsons tweeted. “Myself and so many others wouldn’t be where we are today without our coaches. Thank you. #Wear it forever!”
Parsons, who was a consensus All-American in 2019 under Franklin, won the Big Ten Linebacker of the Year that same season.
Franklin’s $49 million buyout is noted to be the second-highest in college football history, following former Texas A&M coach Jimbo Fisher’s $76 million buyout.
Penn State’s decision to fire Franklin came after a 22-21 loss at home to Northwestern. The team started the season ranked No. 2 nationally but ended with three straight defeats.
During the last game, quarterback Drew Allard suffered a season-ending injury late in the fourth quarter.
Prominent figures from Penn State, including LaVar Arrington and former quarterback Trace McSorley, also shared their thoughts on Franklin’s termination. Arrington remarked on Instagram, “Coach Franklin took on a tough challenge at PSU. I’m thankful for your contributions. I know you always wanted the best for our team and community.”
“Sometimes life throws too much at you,” Arrington added. “Not everyone makes changes mid-season. You did, and we appreciate you leading us through tough times. From overcoming major scandals to nearly reaching the national championship, you did well. Coach will always be respected and loved!”
McSorley expressed gratitude for Franklin’s support on and off the field, saying, “I can’t fully express my thanks. You believed in me when others did not, pushing me to be my best in everything.”
“You taught me about hard work, loyalty, and dedication. I couldn’t have asked for a better coach. It always comes down to ‘I love you.’ Coach, I love you!”
Franklin, aged 53, concludes his tenure with a record of 104-45, making him the second-winningest coach in Penn State history.
Associate head coach Terry Smith will take over as interim head coach for the remainder of the season, as Patrick Kraft, vice president of intercollegiate athletics, conducts a national search for Franklin’s successor.
