One concern that has been on the forefront of Penn State fans’ minds since the announcement of NCAA sanctions is the potential for player transfers. The punishment to the football team is crippling, and the NCAA has essentially granted Penn State players “free agency’ — that is, the option to transfer to another school without eligibility penalties.

Penn State quarterback Matt McGloin (@McGloinQB11) tweeted earlier today a poignant and inspirational message about his commitment to Penn State, which he calls the “greatest football program in America”. Before the scandal broke in November, McGloin was often been criticized for his leadership ability as much as his play on the field. After this statement, no one should be making those claims anymore.

Here’s the full statement:

If I have learned anything from this game, it is: “tough times don’t last, tough people do.” This program has been through some hard times. I and many others, have stayed here out of love for this university; its academic programs, teammates, our wonderful fans and tremendous student body. We, as student-athletes, are being punished for going to class, graduating, being involved in the community and playing football.

Even though these penalties are extremely harsh, I am a Nittany Lion and will remain one. I believe in the core values I have learned in this program. It is not Nittany Lion Football. It is Nittany Lion family. I encourage all players, recruits, and supporters to stay committed to the greatest football program in America. Scholarships and bowl games cannot destroy the fabric of our family. Coach O’Brien and his staff will lead us through this difficult time. All I ask is for the fans to continue to believe in us. WE ARE!