New Penn State head coach Matt Campbell is wasting no time getting to work, and this weekend marks a major first step in his tenure: the Nittany Lions’ inaugural Junior Day under his leadership. The weather might throw a curveball, but Campbell’s message is clear - rain or shine, Penn State is ready to make a statement on the recruiting trail.
“I think one of the great reasons for being here is that you’re in the most fertile ground for high school football within a six-to-eight-hour radius,” Campbell said during his introductory press conference. That’s not just coach-speak - it’s a rallying cry.
He’s leaning into the region’s deep football roots and making it clear that relationships with high school programs in Pennsylvania and its neighboring states will be the foundation of his recruiting strategy. “Nobody is going to attack recruiting more than we are,” he added.
That’s the tone-setter for what’s to come.
This weekend’s Junior Day is the first real glimpse into how Campbell plans to build this program, and the visitor list already shows a wide net being cast. From local standouts to out-of-state talent, the guest list spans multiple classes and positions - a clear indication that Campbell and his staff are playing the long game.
Class of 2026
Samson Gash, WR, Catholic Central (Novi, Michigan)
Gash is the lone 2026 recruit expected this weekend, but he’s a name to watch.
Hailing from Michigan, his presence underscores Penn State’s intent to pull talent from Big Ten country. Gash brings size, speed, and versatility - traits that could fit well in a modern, dynamic offense.
Class of 2027 & 2028: Pennsylvania Recruits
Campbell’s emphasis on building in-state relationships is already showing up on the invite list. The group of Pennsylvania prospects expected on campus highlights the depth of talent in the region - and Penn State’s determination to keep that talent close to home.
- Zachary Gleason, CB, Central Catholic (Pittsburgh) A physical corner from one of Pittsburgh’s powerhouse programs, Gleason brings a gritty edge to the secondary.
- Matthew Gregory, WR, Owen J. Roberts (Pottstown) Gregory has the tools to develop into a reliable target with strong hands and route-running potential.
- Gabe Jenkins, DB, Imani Christian (Pittsburgh) Jenkins has shown flashes of high-level instincts in coverage and could project as either a corner or safety.
- Kemon Spell, RB, McKeesport (McKeesport) A downhill runner with burst, Spell fits the mold of a back who can wear down defenses.
- Khalil Taylor, WR, Pine-Richland (Pittsburgh) Taylor’s speed and ability to stretch the field make him an intriguing vertical threat.
- George Parkinson, DE, Malvern Prep (Douglassville) Parkinson has the frame and motor that defensive line coaches love - raw, but with upside.
- Cade Cooper, WR, Malvern Prep (Malvern) Cooper is a polished route runner with a knack for finding soft spots in coverage.
- Brandon Murphy, ATH, Clairton Murphy is a versatile athlete who could project on either side of the ball. His athleticism jumps off the tape.
Class of 2027: Out-of-State Recruits
Penn State isn’t just looking in its backyard. Campbell’s staff is casting a wider net, bringing in talent from across the country - and that national approach is already evident.
- Case Alexander, LB, Washington (Washington, Okla.) Alexander is a rangy linebacker with sideline-to-sideline speed and a nose for the football.
- **Kyler Kuhn, OL, St. Pius X (Kansas City, Mo.)
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Kuhn is a mauler in the trenches, showing early signs of being a dominant run blocker.
- **Lucas Rhoa, OL, Orange Lutheran (Orange, Calif.) ** Rhoa’s length and footwork stand out. He’s a West Coast lineman with Big Ten potential.
- **Cooper Terwilliger, TE, T.F. Riggs (Pierre, S.D.)
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Terwilliger is a big-bodied tight end who can block and catch - a classic dual-threat at the position.
- Kaylon Bailey, DE, Glenville (Cleveland, Ohio) Glenville has produced plenty of college talent, and Bailey could be next. He’s explosive off the edge.
- DeAnthony Crittenden, WR, Glenville (Cleveland, Ohio) Crittenden is a smooth route runner with good hands and the ability to make defenders miss after the catch.
- Da’Von McDougle, RB/LB, Glenville (Cleveland, Ohio) A true two-way player, McDougle brings toughness and versatility. Whether it’s at running back or linebacker, he’s the kind of athlete who finds a way onto the field.
This weekend isn’t just about campus tours and photo ops - it’s about laying the groundwork for the future of Penn State football under Matt Campbell. The message is clear: the Nittany Lions are ready to compete, not just on Saturdays, but every day on the recruiting trail. With a mix of local talent and national names, Campbell is building a foundation that could shape the program for years to come.