Penn State Looking for New Team Assistant: Former Assistant Special Teams Coach Keith Bruno Resigns
Penn State football is undergoing a minor shake-up in its coaching staff as reports confirm that assistant special teams coach Keith Bruno has officially resigned. According to initial statements from sources close to the program, Bruno is stepping away from collegiate coaching to pursue a career outside of football. This unexpected change leaves head coach James Franklin and the rest of the Nittany Lions staff with a new opening to fill ahead of the upcoming season.
Bruno’s departure marks a significant, though not seismic, shift for Penn State’s special teams unit. Known among players and peers for his energy and hands-on coaching style, Bruno joined the Penn State staff in a support capacity, focusing heavily on the fundamentals of special teams play, such as kickoff coverage, punt returns, and field goal units. While he was not the lead special teams coordinator, his influence behind the scenes was often credited by the players he mentored.
Though Penn State has not yet released an official statement about the resignation, those familiar with Bruno’s situation say the decision was amicable and centered around personal goals. He is reportedly exploring opportunities in private business, with interests in leadership development and athletic performance consulting. Bruno’s move reflects a growing trend among assistant coaches across college football who are re-evaluating long-term careers in light of the increasing demands and pressures of the sport.
Bruno’s time at Penn State, while relatively brief, came during a critical phase of the program’s evolution. Under Coach Franklin’s leadership, the Nittany Lions have pushed to remain nationally competitive, consistently securing strong recruiting classes and posting winning seasons in the Big Ten. Behind the scenes, support staff members like Bruno play crucial roles in preparing game-day units and ensuring consistent player development throughout the year.
The loss of Bruno, however, is not expected to significantly disrupt Penn State’s preparations. The program has long prided itself on having a deep coaching bench and a robust pipeline of young analysts and graduate assistants. In fact, Franklin is known for promoting from within when possible, giving current staffers opportunities to rise in rank as openings emerge. This vacancy could present just such an opportunity, or it may lead to an external search depending on the strategic vision for the special teams unit moving forward.
Several names have already surfaced in speculative discussions about Bruno’s replacement. While no candidates have been officially confirmed, a few former Penn State alumni with coaching experience have been mentioned as possibilities. Additionally, coaches from smaller programs looking to break into the Power Five level may see this as a stepping stone into a premier football program.
As for the players, sources indicate that the team is taking the change in stride. Veteran special teams contributors have expressed gratitude for Bruno’s contributions and leadership, but they also remain focused on preparing for the season ahead. “Coach Bruno brought intensity and heart to every session,” one player remarked. “We wish him all the best, and we’re ready to keep building on what we started.”
This development comes at a time when Penn State is eyeing a breakout season. With a mix of experienced returners and high-potential underclassmen, the Nittany Lions are expected to be contenders not just in the Big Ten, but on the national stage. Finding the right fit to replace Bruno will be essential to maintaining momentum, especially in a phase of the game—special teams—that can so often tilt the outcome of tight contests.
As the coaching carousel turns once again, Penn State will be looking to move quickly but thoughtfully. Whoever steps into Bruno’s former role will have big shoes to fill and an important role to play in the program’s continued rise. More updates are expected from the athletic department in
the coming weeks.