It all starts in the trenches. And for Penn State Football to be successful like any team, you have to recruit well up front.
One particular unit is not faring so well in that venture, as of late: The Offensive Line.
In recent days, Penn State head coach James Franklin and company have been left hanging by THREE consecutive top offensive line targets.
One or two, top targets sign elsewhere … understandable. Three? It’s a concern.
If three top candidates you went after heavily for your business chose elsewhere, you’d begin to question WHY?
So who did Penn State Football recruiting miss out on, and what is the staff’s plan to fill the needs?
1. Jaelyne Matthews, NJ: Ranked 41st OT nationally, had 29 offers.
Matthews verbally committed to PSU in January, then Tuesday announced he would be going to Rutgers. Note: Of his final three schools, Rutgers was not one of them.
2. Michael Carroll, PA: Ranked 9th IOL in the nation.
A Nittany Lions legacy, Carroll was heavily recruited and listed as a “must get” by Franklin as a major in-state prospect, ultimately chose Alabama over PSU, Michigan, and Georgia.
3. Ziyare Addison, FL: Ranked the No. 15 OT in the class, Addison was heavily sought after, especially by Georgia and Penn State.
After a visit to Oregon over this past weekend, Addison committed to the Ducks.
<< SHOP PENN STATE GEAR AT AMAZON >>
Where does Penn State Football Rank in 2025 Cycle?
Now, Penn State Football still has the 13th-ranked 2025 class nationally according to ON3. And there are some hot targets still trending towards the Nittany Lions.
Malachi Goodman is out of New Jersey. The No. 6 IOL in the nation is expected to commit.
Antonio Johnson, No. 54 OL out of Michigan looks to be leaning toward PSU.
Penn State Football has solid depth, and prior to 2025 has been consistent at filling the line needs. But something seems off, and James Franklin can’t continue to keep whiffing on top national targets if he hopes to compete to the end.
So when it comes to Penn State’s recent misses regarding offensive line targets, panic is not warranted, but questions definitely are.
MORE: Elite Defensive Prospect Pledges James Franklin, The Nittany Lions
A note to our readers; If you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may receive a commission
He has been recognized for his work as a photographer and has also contributed to various publications including PennLive and The Weather Channel.
Brad is an Air Force veteran, coach and competitive runner that grew up a Nittany Lions fan as his family is originally from the State College area.
His diverse skillset and experiences provide for interesting perspectives on the college football, and sports topics of the day.
- Ridiculous Fan Takes: Penn State Football vs. Illinois Edition - September 24, 2024
- Penn State Desperately Needs These Players to Step Up With K.J. Winston Lost to ‘Long-Term’ Injury - September 19, 2024
- James Franklin Critics Should Be Careful What They Wish For at Penn State | KULP - September 16, 2024