The partnership between Rocco Becht and Matt Campbell was a defining narrative for Iowa State. Their transition to Penn State has emerged as one of the major talking points of the 2026 season, even as Becht works his way back from injury.
Why Penn State’s 2026 Spring Practices Inspire Confidence During Rocco Becht’s Recovery
As Penn State’s spring practices get underway, many are thinking about Becht, who is working to return from offseason surgery. Campbell provided an encouraging update on the talented signal-caller on Tuesday.
“I think Rocco is a little bit ahead of schedule, in terms of physical. He was able to get out and do some drill work,” Campbell said. “I think the biggest thing for him is he won’t get live reps. But I think things like 7-on-7, three-over-two routes on air. I do think he’s going to get a lot of that work, which I think will be really, really good for him.
“We got to make sure we work slow and right with Rocco rather than fast and wrong. It’s certainly huge to have him out there (for individual drills) and certainly huge to have him, even today, out in the group. For those young quarterbacks to be able to watch him and to have his leadership on the field, that’s been big for us.”
Becht’s presence is already resonating with his teammates, as offensive lineman Cooper Cousins heavily praised the quarterback’s leadership and skill, even calling him “Mr. All-American.”
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“Rocco is awesome,” Cousins said. “He feels like a Penn State quarterback. Rocco’s great. Everyone loves Rocco. I don’t think there’s one thing bad about the guy that you can. It’s like Mr. All-American. He’s awesome.”
Becht tore a labrum in his non-throwing shoulder and suffered an AC joint sprain in his throwing shoulder during the 2025 season. His labrum was surgically repaired in December, and while he won’t be taking live reps this spring, the coaching staff is determined to have him at full strength by training camp this summer.
Campbell also said that receivers Chase Sowell and Brett Eskildsen are not expected to participate in live reps this spring. However, Campbell continues to hype his debut season in 2026, saying Penn State is building a new identity focused on toughness and discipline. He believes the foundation for championship habits is being laid during the winter workouts.
Penn State’s roster is showing incredible growth physically, as Campbell reported that the team collectively added 480 pounds this offseason.
Spring practice will culminate in the annual Blue-White Weekend on Saturday, April 25. Becht and Campbell will then open the 2026 season at home against Marshall on Sept. 5 in Happy Valley, with Penn State chasing a long-shot 1.9% chance at a College Football Playoff berth, according to PFSN.
