Penn State Adds Another 4-Star QB in 2026 Class, Reflecting New Realities of Transfer Era
Nazareth Academy’s Peyton Falzone, a four-star quarterback, has committed to Penn State, becoming the second highly ranked QB in the Nittany Lions’ 2026 recruiting class. California’s Troy Huhn, another four-star prospect, made his commitment back in June 2024. The two QBs are close in the 247Sports Composite Rankings—Falzone at No. 241 and Huhn at No. 265.
In the era of the transfer portal, this type of depth at quarterback is essential. Where succession plans used to be clear, it’s now challenging to develop a young QB without the risk of them transferring in search of a starting opportunity. For example, Beau Pribula left Penn State before their College Football Playoff run to join Missouri, where he saw a clearer path to a starting role. If he had stayed, he likely would have had only one year to start after Drew Allar moved on to the NFL.
It’s tough to retain quarterbacks who aren’t starting, given the abundance of available roles and the money involved in college football. After 2025, Allar will leave for the NFL, setting up a competition between Jaxson Smolik and Ethan Grunkemeyer for the starting job. The QB who loses that battle may also transfer, which could leave Penn State thin at the position, relying on 2025 three-star Bekkem Kritza and walk-on Jack Lambert.
That’s why James Franklin is loading up on quarterback talent, taking two in the 2026 class and likely planning to add more in 2027. Even though one or both of Huhn and Falzone may eventually transfer, building depth is now a necessity.
