Penn State’s search for a new head football coach entered its eighth week on Wednesday as the program continued to absorb the fallout of losing headliner recruits to former coach James Franklin, now leading Virginia Tech. The prolonged vacancy and a string of unsuccessful overtures to potential candidates have left the Nittany Lions navigating one of their most turbulent recruiting periods in recent memory.
Since Franklin’s firing on Oct. 12, Penn State’s once–top-20 recruiting class for 2026 has plummeted to No. 150, according to 247Sports’ composite rankings. Eleven former Penn State verbal commitments flipped to join Franklin in Blacksburg, including seven four-star prospects. The list features high-profile players such as offensive tackle Marlen Bright, running back Messiah Mickens, quarterback Troy Huhn, and several others who now project as key building blocks for the Hokies.
Amid the losses, Penn State secured two significant signings during the early period. Malvern Prep defensive end Jackson Ford, a four-star edge rusher, maintained his long-standing commitment and signed on Wednesday despite uncertainty around the program’s leadership. In a notable turn, four-star quarterback Peyton Falzone also signed after previously committing to Auburn and later withdrawing when that program changed direction. Interim head coach Terry Smith was credited with helping keep Falzone in Happy Valley.
The class, however, remains depleted, and Penn State’s inability so far to land a new head coach has complicated efforts to stabilize the roster. Reports have indicated interest in several established names — including Curt Cignetti, Mike Elko, Matt Rhule, Brent Key, and Eliah Drinkwitz — but each candidate has since signed an extension at his current school. A major offer to BYU’s Kalani Sitake also fell through when the Cougars extended his contract.
With time ticking toward the next signing window, prominent donors are reportedly urging athletic director Patrick Kraft to consider elevating Smith, who has been leading the program through the transition. No decision has been announced.
Source: Phila Inquirer