Penn State’s recruiting has gone into a total tailspin nearly two weeks after James Franklin’s firing as head coach.

A 2026 class that had 25 commitments weeks ago and ranked No. 16 nationally now sits with 18 pledges at 22nd in the cycle .

Many of those verbal commitments have also publicly “reopened” their recruitments. They’re visiting and speaking with other schools while holding onto their Nittany Lions commitment.

In the middle of a coaching search, recruiting is an uncertain endeavor. More of those 18 remaining names could end up elsewhere, while the next head coach could bring players he recruited elsewhere to Happy Valley.

Penn State will also likely hit the transfer portal hard in the offseason.

But the 2026 class still features prominent talent. Several players committ

See Full Page