Four-Star QB Peyton Falzone De-Commits from Auburn - Penn State and Virginia Tech Back in the Mix
Just weeks before the early signing period opens, the 2026 recruiting landscape has taken a dramatic turn. Four-star quarterback Peyton Falzone has de-committed from Auburn, making one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects in the country officially back on the market.
Falzone, a 6-foot-5, 210-pound signal-caller out of Pennsylvania, had been committed to the Tigers since June after flipping from Penn State. Now, with Auburn no longer in the picture and coaching changes shaking up programs across the board, the door is wide open again - and schools like Penn State and Virginia Tech are watching closely.
A Rollercoaster Recruitment
This isn’t Falzone’s first flip - or even his second. He originally committed to Virginia Tech before switching to Penn State, only to then flip to Auburn during the summer. Now, with his de-commitment from the Tigers, he’s once again the top uncommitted quarterback in the 2026 class, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking.
His decision comes at a chaotic time for several of the programs involved. Auburn has already undergone a coaching change, parting ways with Hugh Freeze in October.
Meanwhile, Penn State is in the middle of its own transition, with James Franklin stepping down and reportedly taking over at Virginia Tech. That twist alone adds another layer to Falzone’s recruitment - the coach who once landed him at Penn State is now calling the shots in Blacksburg.
A Key Opportunity for Penn State
For the Nittany Lions, this is a golden opportunity. Falzone is ranked as the No. 306 overall player in the 2026 class and the 20th-ranked quarterback, per 247Sports Composite.
He’s also the No. 10 prospect out of Pennsylvania - meaning he’s right in Penn State’s backyard. And with the program in need of a spark following Franklin’s departure, landing a blue-chip quarterback like Falzone could provide exactly that.
Whoever takes over in Happy Valley will inherit a recruiting class that’s taken some hits - Falzone’s initial flip to Auburn in June was one of them. But with the quarterback now back on the board, the new staff will have a chance to re-engage with a player who’s already familiar with the program and the region.
Virginia Tech Still in Play?
Of course, Virginia Tech isn’t out of the picture either. Falzone built a relationship with Franklin during his time at Penn State, and that connection could now work in the Hokies’ favor. With Franklin now at the helm in Blacksburg, a reunion could be on the table - especially if Falzone values continuity and familiarity in what’s been an unpredictable recruitment.
What Comes Next
Falzone had reportedly told Auburn head coach Alex Golesh as recently as Sunday that he was ready to sign on Wednesday. But just 24 hours later, everything changed. Now, with the early signing period just days away, the clock is ticking - and the stakes are high.
For Penn State, this is more than just a recruiting battle. It’s a chance to stabilize a class that’s been shaken and to lay the foundation for a new era.
For Virginia Tech, it’s a shot at bringing in a quarterback who already knows the head coach and once believed in the program. And for Falzone, it’s another opportunity to find the right fit - one that aligns with his goals, his development, and his future.
What’s clear is this: Peyton Falzone is a name to watch as signing day approaches. And wherever he lands, he’s going to be a foundational piece for a program looking to build - or rebuild - its future.