BREAKING: Five-Star Nation’s top edge rusher officially confirms commits to Penn State
James Franklin will have the opportunity to try and convince Zion Elee, the five-star edge rusher from Baltimore, to reconsider his commitment to Maryland when he visits Happy Valley this offseason. Elee, ranked as the No. 2 recruit in the 2026 class, has already planned a visit to Penn State despite being committed to Maryland. He recently made an unofficial trip to the Nittany Lions campus as he evaluates his options ahead of his senior season.
Maryland’s 2025 recruiting class, which includes notable signees like four-star edge rusher Zahir Mathis, has been strong, but Penn State is looking to make a similar impact by flipping Elee’s commitment. With a powerful defensive coaching staff, including Franklin, Deion Barnes, and new coordinator Jim Knowles, Penn State hopes to secure Elee, just as they did with Mathis.
Standing at 6-foot-3 and 220 pounds, Elee is considered an elite athlete and has been described by 247Sports analyst Huson Standish as one of the most complete edge prospects in recent years. A commitment from him would significantly boost Penn State’s already impressive 2026 recruiting class, which includes top talents like offensive tackle Kevin Brown and running back Messiah Mickens.
Elee could step into a major role on Penn State’s defensive line early on, especially since the team will lose key players like edge rusher Dani Dennis-Sutton and defensive end Smith Vilbert after the 2025 season. With the potential for immediate playing time, Elee is a high priority for the Nittany Lions.
However, Penn State faces stiff competition, not only from Maryland but also from four other schools Elee plans to visit officially. Although Franklin doesn’t often land five-star recruits, he has made significant strides in certain years, such as the standout 2022 class that included Dennis-Sutton and potential 2025 NFL draft pick Abdul Carter.
Elee could be the game-changing talent Franklin needs to help propel Penn State back into national championship contention, potentially setting the stage for a dominant 2026 class.