Penn State Lands In-State Edge Rusher Alexander Haskell for 2026 Recruiting Class
STATE COLLEGE, PA – May 15, 2025 — Penn State has added another key piece to its future defense, securing a commitment from in-state edge rusher Alexander Haskell, a 6-foot-4, 240-pound standout from the 2026 recruiting class. Haskell made his commitment official on May 9, becoming one of the first pledges in what’s shaping up to be a strong in-state push by head coach Franklin and his staff.
Rated as a 3-star prospect, Haskell is currently ranked the No. 20 overall player in Pennsylvania for the 2026 cycle, and one of the top edge defenders in the region. While he may not yet carry a national spotlight, Penn State coaches are excited about his upside — particularly his frame, motor, and athleticism off the edge.
“Penn State feels like home,” Haskell said after announcing his commitment. “I grew up watching this program, and to have the chance to wear the blue and white, to play in front of family and represent my state — it’s a dream come true.”
Built for Big Ten Football
Haskell has the prototypical build of a modern edge rusher, and his high school film shows a player with natural instincts, quick first-step explosiveness, and a relentless approach on every down. Though still developing technically, his physical traits and high motor make him a prime candidate for Penn State’s defensive system, which has produced multiple NFL-caliber edge rushers in recent years.
“He’s the kind of kid you take early because of what he can become,” said a regional recruiting analyst. “He’s strong, long, and plays with grit. Penn State is betting on his development — and it’s a smart bet.”
Haskell’s commitment also reflects Penn State’s ongoing strategy of locking down top local talent early. With Pennsylvania being a critical recruiting ground for the Nittany Lions, landing the state’s top 20 player this early in the cycle is a strong signal to others in the region.
Foundation for the 2026 Class
Haskell becomes one of the first commits in Penn State’s 2026 class, giving the program a valuable head start in building out the defensive front. Coaches reportedly see him as a foundational piece — a player who can develop in Penn State’s strength and conditioning program and grow into a high-impact contributor by the time he’s ready to take the field.
“He’s a raw talent, but he has all the tools we look for in a defensive end,” a source close to the Penn State staff shared. “We love his physicality, his drive, and how much pride he takes in representing his home state.”
Looking Ahead
While Haskell may not carry the buzz of a 5-star headline name, his commitment is exactly the type of smart, long-term move that has helped Penn State remain a consistent force in the Big Ten and a regular contender in national recruiting rankings.
With two full seasons of high school football still ahead, Haskell will have time to refine his skills, increase his visibility, and potentially see his recruiting profile rise. For now, though, he’s firmly committed to Happy Valley — and Penn State fans should be excited about the edge presence developing in their 2026 pipeline.
“I’m ready to work, ready to earn it,” Haskell said. “This is just the beginning.”