Due to the dismissal of James Franklin as Penn State’s head football coach, almost all of the 2026 recruits have deserted Penn State and gone to other schools. Most notably, many of them will join Franklin, the new head coach at Virginia Tech.
I think they are making a big mistake by placing too much importance on Franklin’s promises and his persuasiveness. The decision to join a college football program should include an evaluation of the total football program. This includes whether it has the stature of a national program, if it will receive media exposure and if it has the potential to be nationally ranked. The prowess of the high school football programs in the region should be evaluated. The school’s graduation rate and whether the graduates make it into the pros are important. The adequacy of the training facilities, the size of the fan base and alumni support are other important criteria. Finally, the financial resources available to the football program are vital for recruiting and retaining players. The Penn State football program addresses and excels in meeting all of these criteria.
The long-term potential for the Penn State football program is very positive based on those elements. It attracts outstanding players, and Matt Campbell, the new head coach, will bring the impetus, recruiting prowess and overall coaching ability to boost Penn State football back to prominence. I envision a number of former Penn State 2026 recruits deciding to transfer to Penn State after one year at their new schools.
Donald Moskowitz
Londonderry, N.H.