Ethan Grunkemeyer will take the field for Penn State in the Pinstripe Bowl, a moment that could shape the trajectory of his career. His performance could also influence how the Nittany Lions approach their roster plans for next season and beyond. Under new head coach Matt Campbell, PSU needs to define its direction for the future.
Ethan Grunkemeyer to Decide on Penn State Future After Bowl Game
Over the past year, Penn State fired its head coach and lost its starting quarterback to injury. With these changes, new opportunities arise. The Nittany Lions have a chance to showcase the talent awaiting Campbell. Most notably, their future recruitment and roster moves may hinge on the quarterback position, depending on Grunkemeyer’s decision.
Penn State QB Ethan Grunkemeyer, set to make his 7th start next week, says “nothing is decided yet” on future.
“Focused on this game, then making decisions after that.”
Grunkemeyer had chats with Matt Campbell + new Lions OC Taylor Mouser: “I like the type of people they are”.
— Tyler Donohue (@TDsTake) December 17, 2025
“Penn State QB Ethan Grunkemeyer, set to make his 7th start next week, says “nothing is decided yet” on the future. “Focused on this game, then making decisions after that.”
Grunkemeyer had chats with Matt Campbell and new Lions OC Taylor Mouser: “I like the type of people they are.””
Grunkemeyer, a redshirt freshman, must decide whether to stay at Penn State or enter the portal. His choice will directly influence how Campbell assembles the roster. Regardless of his decision, the new coach faces uncertainty at quarterback. Previously at Iowa State, Campbell built his offense around Rocco Becht, but betting on possibilities is a risky endeavor. The Nittany Lions must plan with certainty, not hope.
Currently, Grunkemeyer is central to PSU’s immediate plans. As highlighted, he’s maintained open communication with the coaching staff. Waiting until after the bowl game allows him to use his performance as leverage, as a strong showing could expand his options. The quarterback market is always highly competitive, and his decision to delay could carry risks.
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If Penn State’s offense falters against Clemson’s tough defense, Grunkemeyer’s options could shrink, and Campbell might look elsewhere. Additionally, if Penn State is willing to invest through NIL, it could seek to upgrade at quarterback, especially given recent performance rankings. For example, Grunkemeyer ranked 94th in PFSN’s QB Impact rankings.
With his future at stake, Grunkemeyer is betting on himself in the bowl game. His performance will likely determine his path next season. For Penn State, his choice could signify the start of a new era or prompt a total roster overhaul under Campbell.
Usually, a pre-Christmas bowl game would not carry as much weight, but life in the Big Ten could be rough for PSU if it does not figure out its quarterback situation.