James Franklin, head coach of Penn State, has recently faced notable challenges in recruiting, highlighted by a significant loss during his search for a new defensive coordinator. While touring a prominent high school in California, an issue arose within the program, further complicating matters. Following the departure of wide receiver Harrison Wallace, Franklin has now suffered another setback, as a highly coveted recruit has committed elsewhere.
Wydeek Collier, a three-star edge rusher and wide receiver from Ss. Neumann Goretti High School in Philadelphia, announced his commitment to Rutgers University. Standing at an imposing 6’6” and weighing 205 pounds, Collier is known for his versatility on both offense and defense. His junior year performance included 270 receiving yards, two touchdowns, 34 tackles, and eight sacks. Collier also boasts an 83-inch wingspan and a 4.6-second 40-yard dash, metrics that underscore his potential as a disruptive edge rusher.
In October 2024, Collier released a list of his top five schools, which included Penn State, West Virginia, Syracuse, Miami, and Rutgers. Despite multiple visits to Penn State during the 2024 regular season, he ultimately chose Rutgers, citing a strong rapport with the coaching staff and a defensive scheme that aligns with his skill set. Collier stated, “I love their coaching staff. I feel real comfortable with them. How they use their defensive ends lets me use all of my skill set.”
Recruiting analyst Ryan O’Bleness praised Collier’s abilities, describing him as “extremely long and versatile” but also noted his need to add weight to his slender frame to succeed as a true defensive end at the collegiate level. Collier’s commitment marks the third pledge for Rutgers’ 2026 recruiting class, signaling significant progress for the Scarlet Knights under head coach Greg Schiano.
This recruitment loss for Penn State coincides with the transfer of Harrison Wallace to Ole Miss. Wallace, a redshirt junior wide receiver, was one of Penn State’s leading offensive players in the 2024 season, recording 46 receptions for 720 yards and four touchdowns. His departure represents a considerable blow to Franklin’s program. Wallace now joins Ole Miss, which has built one of the strongest transfer portal recruiting classes, second only to LSU. He will be playing alongside other notable receivers such as Caleb Odom, Deuce Alexander, and De’Zhaun Stribling.
These developments have sparked debate about James Franklin’s recent recruiting struggles. Some argue that Franklin may be losing his edge in attracting top talent, while others believe programs like Rutgers are simply outmaneuvering Penn State in key recruiting battles.