History was made this week after Penn State head football coach James Franklin was fired on Sunday. Franklin spent 12 seasons in command, leading the Nittany Lions to eight bowl game wins, a Big Ten Championship win, and a College Football Playoff appearance.

Over his career in Happy Valley, our photographers have captured Franklin’s energy, leadership, and aura. Let’s take a look back at some of our favorite photos of James Franklin through the years.

Early days of Franklin. He always had some style, rocking various pairs of shades over the years.

Franklin celebrated with the Nittany Lions after winning the 2016 Big Ten Championship.

James Franklin: 2017 edition.

Outback Bowl appearance.

Franklin showed out For The Kids at THON.

Franklin always had special bonds with his quarterbacks.

Rose Bowl victory in 2023.

Picture day was always all smiles. Franklin loved his team and Penn State.

He would always make time for the fans.

No context. Just Franklin.

Franklin leading the pack to Kernkraft 400 will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Some of our best photos of Franklin came from Penn State’s comeback against USC in 2024.

Franklin’s 2024 Fiesta Bowl era is arguably one of the best stretches of his career. He loves him some Flavor Flav.

Despite the outcome of the Orange Bowl, James Franklin led the Nittany Lions to their first College Football Playoff appearance.

Through the duration of his 2025 season, James Franklin kept his 1-0 mentality.

Unaware, Franklin walked into the tunnel after the alma mater was sung post-game for the final time.