Penn State has added a former Ohio State RB from the transfer portal.
Hayes Fawcett of On3Sports reported Tuesday night that James Peoples will play for Penn State and Matt Campbell in 2026.
Peoples had an expanded role for OSU during his sophomore season, increasing his workload from 49 carries in 2024 to 61 attempts.
The added opportunity translated into the best statistical season of Peoples’ college career.
He rushed for 344 yards and three touchdowns and contributed to the passing game with five receptions for 50 yards.
His versatility out of the backfield added another dimension to Ohio State’s offense, particularly in early and midseason action.
Despite the uptick in usage, Peoples’ role diminished late in the year.
He didn’t record an offensive statistic in Ohio State’s final three games: the regular-season win over Michigan, the Big Ten Championship against Indiana and the College Football Playoff loss to Miami.
Add Nittany Sports Now as a preferred source in Google! Click here to add us.His only statistical contribution during that stretch came on special teams, returning a kickoff for 18 yards in the Cotton Bowl against Miami.
From an efficiency standpoint, Peoples was one of Ohio State’s most productive runners.
Per Pro Football Focus, Peoples finished second among Buckeye offensive players in rushing grade at 80, trailing only Bo Jackson (86.4), and logged the third-most rushing snaps on the roster behind Jackson and CJ Donaldson.
Peoples was particularly effective running between the gaps to the right of center in 2025, averaging an impressive 8.3 yards per carry in that area.
That combination of efficiency and upside now heads to Happy Valley.
Peoples has two seasons of eligibility left.
Follow Nittany Sports Now for more updates on Penn State and the transfer portal, which closes Jan. 16.
