Penn State QB Alex Manske recovers from open-heart surgery

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 11:29 PM

Last updated Aug 19, 2026

Penn State QB Alex Manske recovers from open-heart surgery

Summary

Penn State football quarterback Alex Manske, a redshirt freshman, is set to play in the upcoming 2026 season after recovering from open-heart surgery five months ago. Manske underwent the procedure to correct a dilated aortic root issue discovered during a Penn State-mandated echocardiogram. He returned to practice in July and is expected to serve as the backup quarterback when the Nittany Lions host Marshall on September 5. Teammates and coaches have praised his determination and resilience during recovery, with Manske expressing gratitude for timely medical intervention.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Manske had surgery in mid-March to correct a heart defect.
•He resumed full-contact practices in July.
•Manske will back up starting QB Rocco Becht.
•Penn State plays Marshall on September 5.

Latest Updates

11:29 PMYahoo Sports — Penn State QB opens up return from open-heart surgery
6:05 PMYahoo Sports — QB Alex Manske, stunning open-heart surgery to Penn State football

What they're saying

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Freshman quarterback Alex Manske recently detailed his stunning recovery from open-heart surgery to continue playing for Penn State football.
— Yahoo Sports