James Franklin Raced Across Maryland To Make It To Draft Parties For Both Penn State 1st-Rounders

What's a coach to do when two former players are set to be drafted in the first round of the NFL Draft? If you're James Franklin, the answer is simple: Drive really fast.

The Penn State head football coach made a mad dash across Maryland on Thursday night in order to attend the draft parties of both offensive tackle Olu Fashanu and edge rusher Chop Robinson. The two live 57 miles apart, but Franklin was determined to make it happen.

He started in Gaithersburg, Md., where he saw Fashanu go No. 11 overall to the New York Jets.

"You are an incredible young man & football player," Franklin posted on X afterward. "We couldn’t be happier for you & your family. Your love for the game, dedication & hard work will continue to stand out in your professional career. The @nyjets are extremely lucky to have you!"

After that celebration, Franklin hopped in his car and raced to Waldorf, Md., where — 70 minutes later — the Miami Dolphins selected Robinson with the 21st pick. The coach made it to the party just before NFL commissioner Roger Goodell announced Robinson's name.

"Congrats Chop, the @MiamiDolphins are lucky to have you!" Franklin posted. "You’ve earned this opportunity. We appreciate what you’ve given to Penn State. Continue to compete & chase your dreams."

Penn State has eight more potential picks in the 2024 NFL Draft. If 10 Nittany Lions are drafted, this would be the best draft of Franklin's tenure at Penn State and the program's best since 1996.

Unless Franklin gets his hands on a private jet, though, those guys will probably have to settle for congratulatory texts and phone calls.