James Franklin's Penn State lands commitment from four-star WR Koby Howard to the class of 2025

By Aman Sharma

Modified Aug 05, 2024 14:17 GMT

Penn State football secured a key addition to its 2025 recruiting class on Sunday with the commitment of four-star wide receiver Koby Howard. The decision underscores coach James Franklin's efforts to enhance the Nittany Lions' offensive prowess. Howard, standing at 6-foot and weighing 185 pounds, received his initial offer from the school in June 2022.

In June, Howard had official visits to Ole Miss and Penn State. Alongside Florida and Florida State, these schools were his top choices before he ultimately chose Penn State. Following his official visit to Penn State in late June, the Nittany Lions gained a significant advantage. A month later, Howard returned to Happy Valley for the Lasch Bash event, solidifying his decision.

"I went into Lasch Bash with Penn State as my top school, and on that visit, I made the decision," Howard told On3. "On my official visit, I knew I liked it a lot. I met with the coaches, learned about the offense, and saw a good fit. It bumped them up my list.

"Then at Lasch Bash, I worked with the coaches at camp and spent more time with them, and that was the icing on the cake. My second visit made it an easy decision."

Koby Howard, who amassed over 30 scholarship offers, was active in visiting various schools. On3’s Visit Center records him with 40 visits dating back to 2021, including stops at Auburn, Georgia, LSU, Miami, Notre Dame, Tennessee and Texas A&M.

In addition to Howard, Penn State has commitments from receivers Lyrick Samuel and Jeff Exinor. Samuel is rated No. 181 nationally and No. 28 at receiver by On3, while Exinor is considered a high three-star by On3 and a four-star in its Industry Rankings, at No. 348 nationally.

Koby Howard Chooses Penn State over Florida and others

Koby Howard narrowed his choices from 40 schools to four: Penn State, Florida State, Ole Miss and Florida. The Gators hosted Howard more frequently than any other school.

Koby Howard's visit to Penn State's Lasch Bash was crucial in his decision.

"I got to talk to Coach [James] Franklin after everything, and we had a great conversation," Howard told BWI. "He said my workout went great and that I did a really good job at camp."

Initially leaning toward Florida in the spring, Howard shifted to Penn State as it intensified its recruitment efforts.

"Penn State offered me my freshman year, and (running backs) coach Ja’Juan Seider maintained the relationship. In the spring, they started coming really hard," Howard said.

Reflecting on his journey, which included overcoming a broken leg, Koby Howard said:

"How they recruited me changed things. It had been a tough process for me... so for Penn State to show more interest is what got my attention."

Howard appreciated the supportive environment at Penn State.

"It is a chill environment up there," he said. "I like the coaches, vibe with the players, and am ready to get to work with them."

During his junior season, Koby Howard recorded 65 receptions for over 1,000 yards and eight touchdowns, in addition to rushing for 224 yards.