Penn State is off to an impressive start recruiting talent for their Class of 2023.
With a current top 10 recruiting class for 2022, James Franklin has received six commitments for 2023, included in that are four 4-star players.
One of the bigger names is 4-star talent Mega Barnwell from Fredericksburg, Virginia. The 6-foot-6, 255-pound tight end was Penn State’s first commitment until he decommitted and then made the decision to recommit to the Nittany Lions.
Since committing for a second time in September, Barnwell has been very vocal that his recruitment is closed for good and that he’s 100% committed to Penn State. However, as is the case in the business of recruiting, opposing teams will continue to contact players despite declaring their commitment level. That’s exactly what continues to happen with Barnwell, so, he felt the need to re-issue this statement.
Recruitment 100% shutdown… WEARE23🥇 pic.twitter.com/ZFBNg4wi9Q
— Mega Barnwell (@mega_barnwell) January 13, 2022
Barnwell tweeted that Thursday evening and went into more detail this morning about it with Nittany Sports Now.
“I sent that tweet out because not only did I want Happy Valley and Nittany Nation to know that I am locked in, I wanted everybody to know where my future lies,” said Barnwell. “People saw that Miami had offered and that gave people more reason to try and come recruit me because it looked as if I am open to recruiting, but that isn’t the case. I am fully locked in with Penn State and I feel like everybody needed a reminder.”
“I am so committed to Penn State because of everything. There isn’t just one reason when it comes to why I chose and love Penn State. I absolutely love the entire fan base, the coaches, players and everybody involved with Penn State are fantastic people. Loyalty and family are huge to me, and Coach Franklin has done nothing but treat me like family and welcome me to the Penn State family with open arms. I couldn’t be anymore thankful for this opportunity and it’s only the beginning!”
Barnwell plans on returning to visit Happy Valley later this month and tells NSN that he can’t wait until he can be in State College fulltime as a member of the Penn State football team.
“My message to Penn State fans is that I’ve been to many games, and I have met a few of you guys, and all of you are truly amazing. I can’t wait to step foot on the field in front of 107,000 people and perform to the best of my ability. I see the love on Twitter, Instagram and I truly can’t wait to get up there on campus. We’re bringing in a very special 2023 Class and we’re gonna bring home a natty!”
