Penn State star defensive back opts out of bowl matchup with Clemson
A second Penn State player has opted out of the Pinstripe Bowl.
Safety Zakee Wheatley announced he will not be playing in the Dec. 27 bowl game against Clemson. He made the announcement on X Wednesday night.
“First I want to thank God for blessing me to play five years of football at Penn State University!” his statement read. “... I want to thank all of my coaches that invested in me and developed me into the man and player that I am today. I also want to thank Penn State and all the fans for their amazing support and memories. I could not have imagined a better collegiate career or experience anywhere in the country. I also want to thank my family for always supporting and always showing up for me through the good and bad times.”
Wheatley will begin preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft — when he could be one of the first safeties off the board.
He finishes his Penn State career with six interceptions, six passes defended, two forced fumbles and a sack. Wheatley was one of the team’s most consistent players this season and played at an elite level in nearly every game. He was one of the few bright spots in a trying season for the Nittany Lions that saw James Franklin get fired and the team go on a six game losing streak.
Wheatley joins defensive tackle Zane Durant as opt-outs for Penn State thus far.
This story was originally published December 10, 2025 at 6:37 PM.
