Penn State lost out on five-star cornerback Brandon Arrington after he narrowed his final choices to Oregon and Texas A&M, according to Basic Blues Nation.
The Nittany Lions had been in serious contention for the nation’s top cornerback recruit. Arrington originally included Penn State in his top five alongside Alabama, Oregon, Texas A&M, and USC.
But the timeline shifted quickly.
Arrington had planned to announce his college choice on July 5th. Instead, he cut his list down to just two schools well ahead of schedule.
Hayes Fawcett of On3 reported the narrowed field on Twitter/X.
BREAKING: Five-Star CB Brandon Arrington is down to Oregon and Texas A&M, he tells me for @on3recruits
The No. 1 CB in the ’26 Class will announce his Commitment on Thursday
Where Should He Go?
Penn State’s defense has been one of college football’s best units in recent years. The strength comes from linebackers and edge rushers rather than the secondary.
Losing Arrington hurts for multiple reasons.
The Nittany Lions need cornerback depth to match up against elite wide receivers. Arrington is ranked as the top cornerback in his recruiting class nationally.
If he picks Oregon, Penn State loses a top recruit to a Big Ten conference rival.
Arrington’s decision is expected Thursday, June 19th. He’ll choose between the Ducks and Aggies.
Penn State continues pursuing other defensive back targets in the recruiting cycle. But missing on the nation’s top cornerback prospect stings.
The timing makes it more frustrating. Penn State enters 2025 with championship expectations and could use elite talent at every position.
Arrington would’ve provided immediate impact and long-term value in the secondary. Instead, the Nittany Lions must pivot to other cornerback options as they build toward next season.
The loss shows how quickly recruiting momentum can shift. Penn State went from serious contender to completely out of the picture in a matter of days.
