COLUMBUS, Ohio — The recent exit of James Franklin as head coach at Penn State has sparked significant changes in college football recruiting. With Franklin’s departure, the Nittany Lions are in turmoil, especially concerning their upcoming 2026 and 2027 recruiting classes. Other programs, including Ohio State, are now eyeing potential recruits who might flip their commitments.
Impact of James Franklin’s Departure
Franklin’s exit comes shortly after Penn State’s notable game against Oregon, which marked a pivotal moment for the program. His dismissal leaves the team scrambling to retain recruits, most notably in the 2026 and 2027 classes.
Key Recruits on the Move
- Khalil Taylor: A four-star wide receiver, Taylor recently decommitted from Penn State. Ranked as the No. 56 overall prospect and the No. 11 receiver for the 2027 class, he hails from Pittsburgh. Following his decision, Taylor scheduled a visit to Ohio State on November 1 for the matchup against Penn State.
- Kemon Spell: Another high-profile recruit, five-star running back Spell, also decommitted after Franklin’s firing. As the No. 8 prospect and No. 1 running back in the 2027 class, he has a significant list of offers. He plans to visit Notre Dame this weekend, with Ohio State in the mix among other top schools.
- Layton Von Brandt: A five-star offensive tackle, Von Brandt has also announced his decommitment from Penn State. With an offer from Ohio State, he becomes another key prospect to watch in the shifting landscape of the recruiting process.
Ohio State’s Recruiting Strategy
Ohio State is focusing heavily on the 2027 recruiting class, where they already have commitments from five-star receiver Jamier Brown. The Buckeyes are actively monitoring the situation, particularly in light of available recruits from Penn State.
Future Considerations
The unexpected reshuffling of Penn State’s recruiting landscape presents an opportunity for Ohio State. As many programs reassess their commitments, the Buckeyes are poised to capitalize on potential flips from the Nittany Lions’ recruit roster.
With ongoing changes in staffing and recruitment processes, both Ohio State and Penn State will need to adapt quickly as the 2024 recruiting cycle approaches.
