2027 running back Kemon Spell shuts down recruitment fully committed to Penn State

March 29, 2025 Stephen Conneely CFB News, Recruiting 0
Kemon Spell RB McKeesport Penn State

In a major recruiting win for Penn State, 2027 five-star running back Kemon Spell from McKeesport PA has officially ended his recruitment and is fully locked in with the Nittany Lions. The top-ranked back made the announcement following a visit to State College, calling the experience “something like home.”

Family atmosphere under James Franklin was the difference

For Spell, the visit wasn’t just about football — it was about family.

“My talk with Coach Franklin was awesome, man,” Spell shared in a recent chat. “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.”

That family-first approach has been a cornerstone of James Franklin’s tenure at Penn State, and it’s clearly paying dividends on the recruiting trail. Franklin’s ability to build deep personal relationships with players and their families has helped the Nittany Lions secure some of the top talent in the country.

Strong relationship with coach Drayton helps seal the deal

Another major factor in Spell’s decision was his growing bond with new running backs coach Stan Drayton, who joined Penn State’s staff in early 2024.  It cements how pivotal of a hire Drayton was after the departure of former running back’s coach Ja’Juan Seider to Notre Dame.

“Me and Coach Drayton’s relationship has got stronger and stronger,” Spell shared. “The more we talk, the more we go over things – I saw something special — I want him coaching me.”

Drayton, a respected developer of NFL-caliber backs, has wasted no time making an impact in Happy Valley. His connection with Spell clearly resonated, both on and off the field.

A Homecoming feel in Happy Valley

Spell, a Pennsylvania native, described an overwhelming sense of belonging during his latest visit.

“What I’ve seen on my visit today, it’s something like home,” he said. “That’s where I’m meant to be, where I was born to play.”

The feeling was mutual from the entire staff. “The coaches, they all love me,” Spell said. “I got to sit down and have a few conversations with the offense coach — I love his energy.” 

Spell also made sure to shout out assistant recruiting coordinator Charles Walker, who has become a major figure in the program’s recruiting success. “Coach Charles Walker — I love him, man,” Spell said. “Shows so much affection toward me and my family. Really the best group in the country.”

The Penn State staff has made Spell a top priority in the 2027 cycle, and the warmth he felt during his visit only confirmed that. Whether it was Coach Franklin treating him like family, Coach Drayton breaking down film with him, or the offensive coaches pouring out energy and belief, Spell saw a unified message: they believe in him just as much as he believes in them.

The Nittany Lions build momentum in the 2027 Class

With Spell now officially locked in, Penn State continues to build serious momentum in the 2027 cycle. He joins a class that already includes blue-chip wide receiver Khalil Taylor – who committed earlier today, and several high-upside linemen on both sides of the ball.

At 5-foot-10 and 195 pounds, Spell is currently ranked as the No. 1 running back in the country per On3 and 247Sports. His explosive blend of power, speed, and vision make him an immediate-impact player once he arrives in Happy Valley.

Spell’s commitment highlights the power of Penn State’s culture

Kemon Spell’s commitment is more than just a win on the field — it’s a testament to the culture James Franklin and his staff have cultivated in State College. A place that feels like home, a coaching staff that feels like family, and a vision that Spell believes in completely.

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