BREAKING: Penn State football beats out Big Ten rivals for 2025 TE

After falling quiet on the recruiting trail in recent weeks, James Franklin and Penn State football reappeared Wednesday evening, picking up a commitment from Virginia tight end Matt Henderson. The 13th commitment of the 2025 recruiting cycle, the Nittany Lions beat out Big Ten foe Michigan State as the most likely contender for the up-and-coming prospect.

Nittany Lions land commitment from Virginia tight end Matt Henderson

Penn State football has picked up its first commitment in May, as Powhatan, Virginia, tight end Matt Henderson officially joined the 2025 recruiting class Wednesday evening.

“I want to give my sincere appreciation to all the amazing people who have made me into the person and player l am today, including my parents, family, friends, and coaches, along with a great community behind me,” Henderson wrote on social media. “Without their guidance and efforts, I wouldn’t be able to achieve my dreams [of] doing what I love. I am extremely excited to announce my commitment to Penn State University.”

Extremely excited to announce my commitment to @PennStateFball !!!
Thankful for everyone who has been vital in my process.#AGTG #WeAre 🔵⚪️ pic.twitter.com/ArgOZaLpxI

— Matt Henderson (@MattHend2025) May 8, 2024

Matt Henderson has been to campus twice, in October for the Nittany Lions’ matchup versus Indiana and again in January. While unevaluated by the major recruiting serves, the 6-5, 208-pound tight end has garnered attention from several Big Ten programs, most notably Michigan State and Maryland. Henderson visited both programs in April, and has an official visit with the Spartans set for June 21. His official visit with Penn State football is set for June 7.

On3’s Recruiting Prediction Machine had listed James Franklin and Penn State as only marginal favorites ahead of Michigan State prior to Henderson’s commitment.

Penn State football 2025 recruiting class update

Joining tight end Brady O’Hara, Matt Henderson becomes the 13th commitment for James Franklin and the Nittany Lions in the 2025 recruiting cycle. Penn State had significant momentum at the start of the calendar year, but had slowed throughout the spring, only adding one commitment in March and April. However, the commitment was a significant one, from top 10 running back Alvin Henderson.

Penn State football currently has the No. 9 class in the 2025 recruiting cycle, per 247Sports. On3 has James Franklin and the Nittany Lions slightly lower, sitting at No. 16 nationally.

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