James Franklin has made his first portal splash.

Three-star offensive tackle Alan Herron transferred to Penn State football, he announced Monday via Instagram. Herron, who will come to Penn State from Division II Shorter University, has two years of eligibility remaining.

Herron, a native of Atlanta, Georgia, will come to Happy Valley to fill what may become a gaping hole in the Nittany Lions’ offensive line. Four of Penn State’s five starting offensive linemen are expected to depart the program after the 2023 season, including likely first-round selection Olu Fashanu.

Standing at 6’6″ and 310 pounds, Herron heard from dozens of schools upon his entry into the transfer portal. Per 247Sports, Penn State beat out the likes of Auburn, Clemson, Maryland, and others.

To see what Herron can bring to Happy Valley, check out his Hudl highlight reel.

About the Author

Joe Lister

Joe, shockingly, was Onward State's managing editor from 2024-25. It was an honor. He's off employed doing journalism things, hopefully. If you want to complain about anything he's ever written, you can find him on Twitter (iamjoelister), email (jlister2021@gmail.com), or Signal (iamjoelister.93).

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