Penn State picks up first defensive tackle commitment from Florida native Randy Adirika
Penn State has picked up another important commitment for its Class of 2025, adding defensive lineman Randy Adirika. A native of Miami, Fla., Adirika earned an offer from the Nittany Lions in Feb. 2023 but was never able to see the school up close until this past April when he traveled north with high school teammate and future Penn State quarterback Bekkem Kritiza for the Blue-White Game.
That trip ultimately led to the staff hosting him again, this time for an official visit from June 14-16. Coming out of that trip, there was talk that Penn State felt good about its chances with the 6-foot-3, 280-pound defensive tackle, but many wondered if a final visit to his hometown school, Miami, would end up swaying him to stay home.
“The environment, their style of football, the way they develop and winning culture are the main reasons I committed to Penn State,” Adirika told On3. “I was there only [twice] so far, but the atmosphere is amazing and the people are what stands out.
“The decision was very hard because I had two other schools recruiting me very well. The staff is amazing. Everyone is very down to earth and genuine people. Coach Deion Barnes did a very good job recruiting me and I trust and believe he can help me get to the next level.”
In the end, Penn State was able to do just that, beating out not only the Hurricanes but also USC. The three-star prospect claimed 19 offers total over the course of his recruitment. Other Power Four programs include Arkansas, Auburn, Colorado, Florida State, Kentucky, Louisville, Maryland, Michigan State, Nebraska, Pitt, Rutgers, Tennessee, UCF and West Virginia.
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Adirika currently holds an 88 overall rating by On3, making him a high three-star prospect. He’s ranked No. 49 at defensive tackle and No. 73 in Florida for his class. The On3 Industry Ranking, which combines 247Sports, Rivals and ESPN with On3 for a cumulative grade, has him at No. 467 nationally, No. 44 at his position and No. 62 in Florida.
During his junior season, Adirika totaled 27 tackles, including an eye-catching 16 tackles for loss. He also had 11 sacks in 11 games and forced one fumble.
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