Penn State Lands 4-Star QB Over SEC Program for 2027

The Penn State Nittany Lions are set to have quarterback Rocco Becht under center for his final season at the college level. Then, new head coach Matt Campbell will need to decide on a new quarterback for 2027. 

On Thursday, PSU landed a quarterback that could compete for the starting job next year. 

Alex Manske transferred from Iowa State to back up Becht this season. He'll have a chance to earn the QB1 gig in 2027. 

Per Hayes Fawcett of Rivals, James Armstrong committed to PSU on Thursday. The four-star quarterback turned down offers from Kentucky and Pitt.

"BREAKING: Four-Star QB James Armstrong has committed to Penn State, he tells me for Rivals," Fawcett posted on X. "The 6’3 225 QB chose the Nittany Lions over Kentucky and Pitt. He’s ranked as a Top 10 QB in the 2028 Rivals300. 

'I’m home, WE ARE 🦁.'"

Fans on social media reacted to Armstrong choosing Penn State.

"PA kid leading the state back to a natty," wrote a fan.

"Narduzzi lives in the locker," posted another.

"BANG! Best in PA Stay in PA," commented a fan.

"Penn State landing a guy like James Armstrong early could do wonders in peer recruiting for the 2028 class, especially within Pennsylvania," wrote another. "It’s been a long time since PSU has had an in-state QB with his potential."

"Pitt got locked out. Nothing new over here," posted a fan.

Landing Armstrong is a huge win for Campbell and Penn State. 

Quarterbacks do well in Campbell's system. At Iowa State, Campbell's staff helped develop quarterback Brock Purdy, now the starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers.

Per 247 Sports, Penn State now ranks No. 12 in recruiting for the 2027 class. The Nittany Lions have seven four-star commits and 15 three-star commits.

Campbell faced some adversity in adding players for the 2026 class as he was hired at PSU in December. He's off to a great start for the 2027 class, and should be able to add more elite talent if the Nittany Lions show promise on the field during the regular season.