Matt Campbell's arrival at Penn State has brought a clear vision for the 2026 season, especially with Rocco Becht stepping in as the starting quarterback. Becht, one of the most seasoned QBs in the nation, followed Campbell from Iowa State, aiming to propel the Nittany Lions into Big Ten contention.
However, looking beyond this season, Penn State faces uncertainty at the quarterback position. Ethan Grunkemeyer has moved on to Virginia Tech, while Bekkem Kritza and Jaxon Smolik have also found new teams through the Transfer Portal.
This offseason shuffle leaves Penn State with a mix of talent: 2025 three-star Alex Manske, another Iowa State transfer, along with 2026 recruits Peyton Falzone, Kase Evans, and DIII transfer Connor Barry. Given Campbell's knack for developing under-the-radar quarterbacks like Brock Purdy and Becht into top performers, there’s potential within the roster. Yet, securing an elite QB prospect in the 2027 recruiting cycle remains crucial.
The spotlight is on two standout prospects: former Michigan commit Peter Bourque and the rapidly rising Will Mencl. Unfortunately, Penn State isn't currently the frontrunner for either player.
Peter Bourque and Will Mencl are top targets for Campbell’s recruitment efforts
Campbell and his general manager, Derek Hoodjer, are still seeking their first commitment for the 2027 class. This is particularly pressing at quarterback, where seven of the top 11 players have already committed, according to 247Sports Composite rankings.
Bourque, the No. 5 QB in the class from Massachusetts, was initially recruited by James Franklin’s staff and had committed to Michigan.
However, with changes in Michigan's coaching staff, Bourque is reconsidering his options. Reports suggest he's in frequent talks with Penn State and Georgia, with Virginia Tech also in the mix.
Penn State fans might be wary, especially after Georgia’s Kirby Smart successfully recruited Pennsylvania’s top player, Kemon Spell. The competition is fierce, and Penn State faces a tough battle.
Challenging Oregon for Rivals’ top-ranked QB
Meanwhile, Will Mencl has surged to QB1 status in Rivals' rankings and is No. 12 in the 247Sports Composite. Although Penn State extended an offer early on, Oregon is considered the favorite for the Chandler, Arizona, standout.
If Bourque and Mencl end up at Michigan and Oregon, respectively, Penn State will need to explore other avenues for a top-tier QB in the 2027 class. Without landing a major recruit, Campbell might have to focus on developing a young talent or invest heavily in a veteran QB from the Transfer Portal next offseason.
Both development and transfer options come with risks and costs, underscoring concerns about Campbell’s recruiting prowess. Each day without a 2027 commitment adds pressure to secure the future of Penn State’s quarterback position.