Although Joe Paterno's current contract is set to expire at the end of the 2008 season, he said Saturday he is not concerned about his status with the university.
"I don't even care if I get a contract," Paterno said. "I'll be very frank with you, I think the university will do what they think's right whenever the time comes. Right now, I'm very comfortable."
Paterno appeared carefree and even snacked on a slice of pizza as he met with reporters inside the Lasch Football Building after practice. The 81-year-old head coach even joked that he wants to coach for "just another 10 years."
He also used the press conference to deny rumors that he has met with Penn State officials to negotiate a contract. Paterno said he has only approached the university regarding a contract once -- almost 10 years ago -- adding if it was a major concern, he would have already been in contact with Penn State President Graham Spanier and Athletic Director Tim Curley.
While the contract issue has garnered a lot of media attention, every player interviewed Saturday said the team has not paid any attention to the situation and is not worried about Paterno's future at Penn State.
"We came here knowing that Joe might not be here and it's been like that for the last 15 years," linebacker Sean Lee said. "So we know the foundation that he's laid is going to be here when he's gone.
"You actually come up here and see him coach, see how much passion and intensity he has, and you realize it's not a problem."
Paterno also discussed a possible succession plan and said he would like to be part of the decision-making process when the school searches for his eventual replacement.
But looking at the upcoming season, Paterno's 43rd as head coach of the Nittany Lions, he said a contract is the least of his concerns. Paterno said he has coached without a contract before and would do so again.
He said he trusts the university's decision will be in the best interest of all parties involved and that he would even be comfortable renewing his contract on a yearly basis.
"What's the urgency?" Paterno said. "If I wanted a contract, I'd go ask for a contract. The contract I'm working with now, they brought it to me.
"If I've got to have a contract to keep my job here, I'm in the wrong place."
