Penn State lose out on four star defensive end

While Penn State have recorded some big wins on the recruiting trail and are further ahead than anyone expected to start the Matt Campbell era in Happy Valley, they have also suffered some major losses. The latest one is perhaps the most painful, as they have lost out on another star edge rusher from the tri-state area. On May 1, Aiden O'Neill of Ramsey, New Jersey decided to commit to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish over the Nittany Lions. While the Blue and White would make amends by signing Stanley Montgomery, who is from Philadelphia, the loss of O'Neil has to sting.

Imagining the pairing of both Montgomery and O'Neil on opposite sides of a front three or four will have to be a dream for another day for Nittany Lions fans. Playing for Don Bosco Prep, O'Neil showcased an elite skill set in his junior season, recording 45 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, and six sacks. That level of production would have earned him a standout role amidst a constantly evolving defensive front for the Blue and White.

However, according to Victory Bell Rings, O'Neil's belief in Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman made the decision for him. "I think his long history of coaching up guys, creating defensive ends, I just think it is going to be the perfect match. I feel like we are going to do great things together," O'Neil said of his coaching prowess.

What will hurt Nittany Lions fans even more is that O'Neil had lined up an official visit with the Blue and White, but will now only be attending any events related to Notre Dame.

For now though, the Nittany Lions should be very content on the way Matt Campbell has approached the defensive line in terms of recruiting. With the commitment of Stanley Montgomery, at the very least the Nittany Lions have one future building block set to fortify the edge. And who knows? Perhaps if O'Neil grows discontent in South Bend, there could be a place for him in Happy Valley after all over the next couple of years.