Penn State adds seven, subtracts two from football team

Penn State coach Bill O'Brien said seven new players, including three quarterbacks, arrived on campus over the weekend and began classes on Monday.

The quarterbacks are junior college transfer Tyler Ferguson of Bakersfield, Calif., a sophomore, and preferred walk-ons Austin Whipple of Westlake, Ohio, and D.J. Crook of West Barnstable, Mass.

Four freshman also enrolled early -- tight end Adam Breneman of Camp Hill, Pa., running back Richy Anderson of Frederick, Md., and defensive backs Anthony Smith of Randolph, N.J., and Jordan Smith of Washington. Anthony Smith played last season at Valley Forge Military Academy.

The addition of three quarterbacks added depth at the position for spring practice. Before their arrival, sophomore-to-be Steven Bench was the only quarterback on the roster. Christian Hackenberg, one of the nation's top prospects, is expected to sign with Penn State next month on National Signing Day.

O'Brien also announced the departure of backup tailback Curtis Dukes and freshman linebacker Brennan Franklin.

Dukes struggled last season with academics and with O'Brien's system on offense but the coach gave no reason for why he left. Franklin, who redshirted last season, left for personal reasons, O'Brien said.

--Joe Juliano