Elite cornerback recruit gives James Franklin a promising sign in wake of recent unofficial visit to Penn State

The Penn State Nittany Lions are looking to build upon their July unofficial visit by giving him the best fall experience possible. Four-star Ashton Alston from Ohio will be in Happy Valley for its white out game against Oregon come late September. If James Franklin places the correct bet, he could pull an upset over […]

Ian Valentino National College Football Writer
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Nov 12, 2022; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin looks on during a warm up prior to the game against the Maryland Terrapins at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew OHaren-USA TODAY Sports

The Penn State Nittany Lions are looking to build upon their July unofficial visit by giving him the best fall experience possible. Four-star Ashton Alston from Ohio will be in Happy Valley for its white out game against Oregon come late September. If James Franklin places the correct bet, he could pull an upset over his top Big 10 rival.

Ranked among the top-15 cornerbacks in the 2027 recruiting cycle, the 5-foot-11, 175-pound defensive back has attracted attention from elite programs, securing offers from Ohio State, LSU, Notre Dame, Alabama, and Oregon, among others.

He recently said that Penn State is among the most active teams in his recruitment, and that “My phone is hit daily.” He’ll also hit LSU, Notre Dame, and Missouri this fall, with a trip to Ohio State vs. Texas is looking likely. Penn State can feel good knowing its program can offer exactly what Alston wants, though.

“A coach that can help develop me for the next level,” Alston said. “A brotherhood culture, a team that can be a competitor for the playoffs and a school that can prepare me for life after football.”

In his 2024 sophomore season, Alston recorded 46 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, 10 pass breakups, 2 forced fumbles, and 3 interceptions, solidifying his status as a rising star. With his junior campaign in 2025 on the horizon, Alston remains a top target for numerous college programs closely monitoring the Ohio native’s recruitment journey.