Christian Hackenberg blames James Franklin for Penn State struggles
Quarterback Christian Hackenberg continues to blame to coach James Franklin for his struggles while at Penn State, according to Robert Klemko of the MMQB.
“Despite the fact that it's probably true, you don't want to hear a kid say that,” one NFL evaluator told Klemko.
Hackenberg had great success as a freshman under coach Bill O'Brien, when he threw for 2,955 yards and 20 touchdowns. O'Brien departed for a head coaching job with the Houston Texans.
Hackenberg is coming off a season in which he finished with 16 touchdowns, six interceptions and 53.5 completion percentage. In his sophomore year, Hackenberg struggled and threw 12 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
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The junior announced his intention to declare for the NFL draft in January. In his announcement, he thanked several members of the coaching staff but did not include Franklin.
The Penn State quarterback made an appearance as a second-round draft pick in Chris Burke's mock draft last month.
