4-Star Recruit George Parkinson Praises Penn State After Visit

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4-Star Recruit George Parkinson Praises Penn State After Visit

The Penn State Nittany Lions finished the 2025 season going 7-6 and defeating the Clemson Tigers 22-10 in the Pinstripe Bowl. They’re now under new leadership, with Matt Campbell replacing former head coach James Franklin.

While the transfer portal has been the biggest storyline this offseason, Campbell and the new staff have put a focus on high school recruiting. Penn State hasn’t landed any commitments in the 2028 cycle, but that may not last long.

The Nittany Lions continue to push for some of the cycle’s top recruits. That includes EDGE George Parkinson out of Douglassville, Pennsylvania. The in-state recruit has emerged as one of the most sought-after players in the country.

Former Iowa State Cyclones head coach Matt Campbell, now with the Penn State Nittany Lions.© Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Parkinson is a four-star recruit, the No. 8 EDGE, the No. 2 player in Pennsylvania and the No. 53 player in the nation, per Rivals Industry Rankings. As a sophomore at Malvern Prep, the pass rusher already stands at 6-foot-4 and weighs 225 pounds.

After a weekend visit to Happy Valley, Parkinson spoke to Rivals’ Chad Simmons and praised Penn State.

“I felt welcomed right when I entered the building. This visit was very personable,” Parkinson said. “The highlights were being able to talk with Coach Campbell and hear his vision and plans for Penn State…. They’ve definitely moved back into the conversation after this visit.”

While the Nittany Lions have made a strong impression, it’s a high-powered battle for the pass rusher’s commitment. Parkinson has also taken visits with the Maryland Terrapins, Ohio State Buckeyes, South Carolina Gamecocks and Florida State Seminoles.

Related: Michigan Predicted to Lose 4-Star WR to Big Ten Team

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jan 25, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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