In a bold move that has reshaped the recruiting landscape, Penn State head coach Matt Campbell made an immediate impact upon his arrival in December. Taking the reins of a 2026 Nittany Lions recruiting class that initially featured only two signees, Campbell wasted no time in reaching back to his roots at Iowa State to bolster his new team.
Quarterback Kase Evans is one of the standout recruits who decided to flip his commitment from the Cyclones to the Nittany Lions. Alongside Evans, nine other prospects made the switch, signaling a significant shift in Penn State’s recruiting momentum. Evans, in particular, is viewed as a cornerstone for future offensive strategies.
Originally, Evans had committed to Iowa State in October 2025, after leaving Oklahoma State due to a coaching change. Campbell had praised Evans as "one of the great steals in this class" during Iowa State's signing day, highlighting the quarterback's potential and the impact he could have.
Two months later, Waters, a former Cyclones assistant, echoed these sentiments, noting Evans’ ability to generate excitement across both campuses. This move not only strengthens Penn State's roster but also underscores Campbell's strategic prowess in securing top talent for the Nittany Lions.