In college football recruiting, momentum can change quickly. What looks like a sure commitment can shift with just one visit. That’s exactly what’s happening with four-star cornerback Camren Hamiel.
His latest decision is shaking up the recruiting plans of big programs like Nebraska, Oregon, and Texas A&M. Surprisingly, Penn State’s head coach, James Franklin, seems to be steering the narrative.
James Franklin Makes Major Recruiting Move With 4-Star CB Camren Hamiel
With 16 commits already locked in and a No. 4 Big Ten ranking, the Nittany Lions are surging into the 2026 recruiting season with relentless ambition. Despite this, coach Franklin shows no signs of slowing down, as another four-star CB and his family seem captivated by the strong impression the program made on them.
Yes, you heard that right. Hamiel and his family were clearly impressed during their visit to Happy Valley this past weekend. That one visit may have just shaken up the recruiting plans of Nebraska, Oregon, and Texas A&M.
Hamiel, a standout from Desert Edge High School in Arizona, had Penn State in his top four. But after seeing the program from very close, that list may be changing. According to Chad Simmons, the Nittany Lions left a lasting impression on both Hamiel and his family.
Simmons posted on X, “Desert Edge (Ariz.) 4-star CB Camren Hamiel visited Penn State for the first time this weekend and the Nittany Lions made a strong impression on him and his family.”
Desert Edge (Ariz.) 4-star CB Camren Hamiel visited Penn State for the first time this weekend and the Nittany Lions made a strong impression on him and his family.
Story: https://t.co/diqO7hB6Nr (On3+) pic.twitter.com/7U3g8JQfmh
— ChadSimmons (@ChadSimmons_) May 18, 2025
While speaking with On3’s Chad Simmons, the 6’0″, 180-pound elite CB prospect said, “Before this visit, Penn State was in my top four just knowing a little about the program and how I felt about the coaches, but now they are top two or top three… After the visit, I feel really good about Penn State and the coaching staff there.”
The Indiana native was especially impressed by Franklin’s message about team equality and player development. While praising Franklin’s approach, Hamiel added, “He talked about what is important and what is not important, and it was really good for me and my parents… It is about equality at Penn State. They work together, and I loved that.”
KEEP READING: Why Penn State’s Stars Turned Down Big NIL Money—and What James Franklin Revealed Behind the Decision
We anticipate Hamiel’s final decision in mid-summer, following his official visits to Nebraska, Oregon, and Texas A&M. But his comments clearly indicate that Penn State has gained serious ground, and this momentum could be enough to shake up the expected outcome of his recruitment.
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