2026 Penn State football: James Peoples player profile

Penn State football will have a completely overhauled roster to get to know in 2026 under new head coach Matt Campbell. Following one of the most active offseasons in recent memory for Penn State with a flurry of activity in the transfer portal, fans will have a lot of catching up to do in getting to know this year’s Penn State roster. Fortunately, not every face will be brand new to fans. Regardless, we will be here to give you a fresh overview of every player on the roster for the 2026 season with a series of player profiles.

From all of the returning players, a long list of new faces from the transfer portal, and incoming recruits from the Class of 2026, we will have you covered with this year’s player profiles for the Penn State roster. Here is a quick look at running back James Peoples for the 2026 season.

Penn State offered James Peoples back in 2023, but he ended up choosing to play for Ohio State instead. But he hit the transfer portal after two seasons with the Buckeyes and now joins a loaded Nittany Lions running back room.

Career Stats

The former four-star prospect had a couple of solid seasons with the Buckeyes, tallying 110 total carries for 541 yards and five touchdowns. He also added 11 catches for 48 yards through the air.

Depth Chart Overview

With Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton entering the NFL Draft, there is a massive need for a new face to step up and carry the rushing load. Peoples is one of the most experienced players at the running back position and will certainly be in the running to lead the charge this season.

Random Fact

In addition to being one of the best running backs in the nation, Peoples ran track during his high school years.