BREAKING: Penn State Football Recruiting Lands 4-Star Edge Rusher
Penn State Football Recruiting has been a bit of a … roller coaster recently.
However, on Friday, the Nittany Lions picked up some good news as 4-Star Edge Rusher Jackson Ford announced his commitment to Penn State.
The in-state star was a huge want for the Penn State staff.
Landing Ford is a great sign for the Nittany Lions, and the defense that head coach James Franklin and coordinator Jim Knowles are building for 2026, and beyond.
Where Else Could Jackson Ford Have Committed?
Despite playing for Pennsylvania power house, Malvern Prep, Jackson Ford had plenty of options outside of the state.
The top 250, ON3 Industry 4-star had a final 4 of Penn State, Ohio State, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
Ford officially visited all of his final schools. He additionally visited Kentucky, however, they did not make the cut. Sequentially, Ford went to Wisconsin, Penn State, Ohio State, and Michigan. Often times, schools prefer to either be the first official visit, or the last. However, Penn State overcame not having either of those with Jackson Ford.
What Kind of Player is Jackson Ford?
Penn State is getting a pretty special athlete in Jackson Ford.
Standing at 6-4, 240 pounds, Ford has a Division I build. For his high school, Malvern Prep, Ford plays both Defensive End and Wide Receiver. That is a unique combination, but it speaks to the kind of player that Ford is.
“What sets Jackson apart is his motor,” His High School coach, Dave Gueriera, said is the most unique thing about Ford. “Like, he doesn’t stop.”
Penn State Football fans should be genuinely excited about Jackson Ford. He is a great Edge Rusher who looks to thrive in Happy Valley.
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What Else to Watch For in Penn State Football Recruiting World?
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There is another target to keep an eye on for Penn State Football.
In roughly six hours, top Defensive Lineman Damari Simeon is set to announce his college decision. Simeon has led a very quiet recruitment, but the tea leaves seem to indicate Ohio State has momentum with Simeon currently.
Given his quiet recruitment though, it is anyone’s guess.
Additionally, next week is one to watch as well. Offensive Lineman Marlen Bright is expected to announce next week. As well as Cornerback Dorian Barney. They are both prospects to watch for the Nittany Lions.
MORE Penn State Football News from NittanyCentral:
- BREAKING: Penn State Football Recruiting Picks Up 2026 Tight End Commitment
Penn State Football Recruiting: Newly Offered 2026 Prospect Talks Penn State Offer [EXCLUSIVE]
BREAKING: Penn State Football Lands Elite 4-Star LB Elijah Littlejohn Over National Powers
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Purdy was born and raised in central Ohio and served for four years writing for his high school's newsletter. Currently studying Biblical Studies at Lancaster Bible College in Pennsylvania, Ian has been a lifelong Nittany Lion fan.