Kemon Spell, the top-ranked 5-star running back in the class of 2027, remains publicly committed to Penn State. But the McKeesport (Pa.) standout is set to take Fall visits to three major national contenders, sparking renewed intrigue around one of the most pivotal recruitments in college football. Spell has scheduled game-day visits to Notre Dame on Sept. 13, Penn State on Sept. 27, Florida State on Oct. 4, and Alabama on Oct. 18. While his stop in State College for the Oregon Whiteout is expected, the others show that blue bloods are still in pursuit of the five-star back.
This isn’t a case of wavering loyalty. It’s a glimpse into the future of recruiting: elite prospects maximizing their experiences while keeping options open, even when committed. But for James Franklin and running backs coach Stan Drayton, retaining Spell’s signature must remain a top priority.
Notre Dame Emerges as the Top Threat
Spell’s early bond with Penn State remained intact after Ja’Juan Seider, the former Nittany Lions running backs coach, departed for Notre Dame. But it’s no secret that Seider’s move to South Bend left a mark. After reaffirming his commitment during Spring practice, Spell credited Drayton for helping steady the ship. “Me and Coach Drayton’s relationship has got stronger and stronger,” Spell said in March. “The more we talk, the more we go over things — I saw something special. I want him coaching me.”
Still, it’s Notre Dame that looms as the most credible threat. The Fighting Irish recently landed four top targets who were once in Penn State’s orbit, including Joey O’Brien, Khary Adams, Grayson McKeogh, and Charlie Thom. That trend places added pressure on the Lions’ staff to hold serve at home.
A Recruitment Penn State Cannot Afford to Lose
For a program building momentum in the 2027 cycle, Spell is the crown jewel. He is the highest-ranked offensive prospect on Penn State’s board and the face of the class. At 5-foot-10 and 195 pounds, Spell blends downhill power with breakaway speed and smooth lateral cuts. He runs behind his pads, possesses excellent vision, and explodes out of his cuts with force. On tape, he already looks college-ready, both in pass protection and between the tackles.
This is not just a regional recruitment. It’s a national battle for one of the most complete backs in recent cycles. For Penn State, which has struggled to keep some top in-state talent home in recent months, closing the deal on Spell is critical.
Whiteout Looms Large in Retention Effort
Spell’s Sept. 27 visit to State College for the Oregon game comes at a pivotal moment. The Whiteout atmosphere will give Penn State its best chance to solidify Spell’s commitment down the stretch.
During an interview in late March, Spell described Penn State as feeling like family. “My talk with Coach Franklin was awesome,” he said. “He sat down with me and my parents and talked about the love he has for me and my family, and how I will be treated just like his kids.” Spell also praised assistant recruiting coordinator Charles Walker and the offensive staff’s energy. “They all love me,” Spell said. “Really the best group in the country.”
With visits to Notre Dame, Florida State, and Alabama surrounding the Penn State stop, the Whiteout becomes more than just a game; it’s a measuring stick.
No Red Flags — But No Room for Comfort
Spell has earned the right to enjoy these visits. There’s no red flag in seeing a blue-chip recruit attend top-tier matchups. These visits are about relationships, environment, and long-term vision.
Penn State has done its part by building a culture rooted in trust and personal connection. Drayton’s fast-tracked bond with Spell, combined with Franklin’s steady presence, remains a foundational piece of the commitment. But until Spell signs on the dotted line, this one isn’t over. Notre Dame will continue to push. Florida State and Alabama will make strong impressions. And Penn State must remain aggressive — not reactive — in how it handles Spell’s process.
This recruitment is not slipping away. But it is very much in play. And for the Nittany Lions, it’s one they simply cannot afford to lose.
Main Image: Syndication: Hanover Evening Sun
The post Kemon Spell’s Fall Visit Slate Signals Battle Brewing for Five-Star RB appeared first on Last Word on College Football.