BREAKING: Penn State Football Scores Major Recruiting Victory
In a major recruiting win that’s sending shockwaves through the college football world, Penn State Football has landed one of the top high school players in the nation. While not officially the No. 1 overall player in the country, this commitment marks a massive step forward for head coach James Franklin and his staff as they continue building a national powerhouse in Happy Valley.
Over the past few years, Penn State has consistently ranked among the top programs in the Big Ten when it comes to recruiting. But this latest pickup—beating out blue-bloods like Ohio State, Alabama, and Tennessee—underscores the Nittany Lions’ growing influence on the national recruiting trail.
While rumors circulated online suggesting Penn State had landed the consensus No. 1 player in America, it’s important to clarify that the actual top-ranked recruit, quarterback Bryce Underwood, committed to Michigan. Underwood, a five-star from Belleville, Michigan, made headlines earlier this year when he flipped from LSU and signed with the Wolverines.
That said, Penn State is still putting together one of its best classes in years. Among its most significant recent additions is Andrew Olesh, a top-60 national prospect and the No. 1 tight end in Pennsylvania. Olesh flipped his commitment from Michigan to Penn State in December 2024, delivering a huge in-state win for Franklin’s staff.
Other key commitments include:
Elijah Littlejohn, a four-star edge rusher with elite upside
Khalil Taylor, a dynamic wide receiver ranked in the top 50 nationally for the 2027 class
Pierce Petersohn, a versatile athlete out of Minnesota
Kevin Brown, a top-40 offensive tackle nationally
These players are part of a growing pipeline of talent coming to Penn State. The staff has placed an increased emphasis on recruiting within Pennsylvania, locking down top in-state prospects while also branching out into key regions like the Midwest and Southeast.
Penn State’s recruiting momentum comes at a crucial time. With the Big Ten growing stronger than ever—including the addition of USC, UCLA, Oregon, and Washington—the race for talent has become even more competitive. Programs like Ohio State, Michigan, and now even Nebraska are investing heavily in recruiting and player development.
James Franklin and his coaching staff are meeting that challenge head-on.
Landing players who are choosing Penn State over national championship-caliber programs is a sign that recruits are buying into the vision in Happy Valley. With a strong blend of high-level facilities, NIL opportunities, NFL development, and one of the best game-day environments in the country, Penn State is positioning itself as a top destination for elite talent.
While they may not have secured the No. 1 overall player in the nation just yet, the Nittany Lions are making noise—and this latest recruiting victory is proof they’re closer than ever.
Stay tuned—Penn State’s 2025 class is only getting started.
