Penn State's football program is undergoing significant roster changes as two key players, defensive lineman Xavier Gilliam and wide receiver Kaden Saunders, have announced their intentions to enter the NCAA transfer portal. This development marks a pivotal moment for both athletes as they seek new opportunities and for the Nittany Lions as they prepare for the upcoming season without two familiar faces. The news highlights the dynamic nature of college football and the increasing impact of the transfer portal on team rosters nationwide.
Xavier Gilliam, a defensive lineman who showcased growing potential, and Kaden Saunders, a wide receiver who primarily contributed as a return specialist, are both departing Penn State. Their decisions underscore the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics, where athletes frequently explore new avenues for playing time and development through the transfer portal. These moves will undoubtedly prompt Penn State's coaching staff to strategize on how to fill the gaps left by these departures and adapt their recruiting efforts accordingly.
Defensive Lineman Xavier Gilliam's Departure
Xavier Gilliam, a defensive lineman for Penn State, has officially announced his intention to enter the NCAA transfer portal. This decision comes after two seasons with the Nittany Lions, where he demonstrated increasing contributions to the team's defensive unit. As a former three-star recruit, Gilliam arrived at Penn State with considerable promise and began to fulfill that potential during his sophomore year, signaling his growth and impact on the field. His departure marks a notable change for the team's defensive line composition.
During his tenure at Penn State, particularly in his second season, Xavier Gilliam carved out a more substantial role within the defensive front. He appeared in all 13 games during the 2025 campaign, following five appearances as a true freshman in 2024. His statistics reflect his growing influence, tallying 15 tackles, including 2.0 tackles for loss, and contributing 0.5 sacks. Notably, he also earned two starts, underscoring his developing presence and the coaching staff's increasing trust in his abilities. Gilliam was ranked as the No. 741 overall recruit in the 2023 class by the Rivals Industry Ranking, and his high school career saw him earn first-team All-Metro honors during an impressive senior season.
Wide Receiver Kaden Saunders' Transfer Plans
Wide receiver Kaden Saunders is also set to enter the NCAA transfer portal, making him the second Penn State player to announce such intentions recently. After dedicating four years to the Nittany Lions, Saunders is now seeking a new collegiate environment for his athletic career. His journey at Penn State was marked by early involvement, followed by a shift in his primary role, particularly in his later seasons with the team.
Saunders' contributions on the field evolved throughout his time at Penn State. While he recorded eight catches for 77 yards and a touchdown across the 2022 and 2023 seasons, his receiving opportunities diminished in his final two years, where he did not record any receptions. However, he found a significant niche as a return specialist, particularly in 2023 and 2024, where he amassed 17 punt returns for 113 yards, including a long return of 37 yards. His 2024 season was largely impacted by a hand injury, and he subsequently missed the entire 2025 season due to a "long-term injury," as described by Coach James Franklin, which further shaped his role and ultimately influenced his decision to explore new opportunities via the transfer portal.