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WR Jerquaden Guilford backs out of Penn State commitment

Mug-Shot 4x4by:Ryan Snyder•about 10 hours•

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Jerquaden Guilford (Credit: Ryan Snyder | Blue White Illustrated)

Penn State is back down to eight commitments in its Class of 2026 following three-star wide receiver Jerquaden Guilford’s decision to reopen his recruitment.

A native of Fort Wayne, Ind., Guilford’s commitment came earlier than expected when he announced his decision back on Dec. 6. However, that hasn’t stopped other schools from showing interest in recent months.

“After intense discussions with my family, I have decided to decommit from Penn State and reopen my recruitment,” Guilford posted on social media. “This was not an easy decision and I have so much respect and love for Coach [James] Franklin, Coach [Marques] Hagans and the entire Penn State staff for accepting me and believing in me.

“I want to take the time to thoroughly evaluate my options and ensure that the school I choose aligns with the values my family and I hold. With the new landscape of college recruiting, I want to make a decision that is as close to perfect as possible for my future. Thank you to Penn State for everything, and I appreciate all the coaches and supporters who continue to guide me on this journey.”

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Guilford emerged as a top target for the Nittany Lions last July when he attended Penn State’s White Out camp. By that point, he had already been offered by Ohio State. In more recent months, Michigan has also entered the mix. The Wolverines are expected to be a school he seriously considers.

After camp, the Northrop prospect didn’t return to State College until the end of November for the regular season finale against Maryland. It was the only true unofficial visit he took to Penn State before announcing his commitment a week later.

At the time, Guilford became the third wide receiver to join PSU’s Class of 2026. The Nittany Lions still hold commitments from four-star prospect Jahsiear Rogers and three-star receiver Lavar Keys.

It’s unclear if Guilford will still take an official visit to Penn State later this year, but the staff remains in the mix with a host of top targets throughout the region. New York native Messiah Hampton hasn’t announced his official visit plans yet, but he informed On3’s Chad Simmons this week that Penn State, Miami, Ohio State and Syracuse are the four schools currently standing out.

Hagans and the staff also have official visits set with Connor Salmin, Travis Johnson and Davion Brown, all of whom reside in Virginia.

Penn State’s 2026 class remains at No. 6 overall nationally in On3’s Team Rankings.

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