Penn State Football: Dorian Johnson De-Comitting Another Blow for Bill O'Brien

Dorian Johnson was probably the third-best 2013 recruit that Penn State managed to grab a hold of, so obviously they will be gutted that he has left for other pastures.

Mark Dent of the Post.Gazette.com reports that Johnson withdrew his verbal commitment to the team last night amid the big sanctions handed down by the NCAA.

Penn State has now lost five 2013 commitments in the last few weeks.

It isn't the end of the world yet, though, as Dent also suggests that prized quarterback Christian Hackenberg and elite tight end prospect Adam Breneman are still committed.

Great news for Penn State fans and the recruits alike because they can instantly become heroes by staying loyal to their word in the face of adversity.

Unfortunately, it's likely more recruits will jump ship before National Signing Day in February.

Regardless, keeping guys like Hackenberg is important for the rebuilding phase that the team is about to undertake.

Johnson will be a big loss, though.

After all, the 6'6", 285-pound offensive tackle opted for Penn State over other elite programs like Alabama and Ohio State.

Dustin Hockensmith of Pennlive.com reports that Johnson will now be considering Pittsburgh, Ohio State and Virginia Tech.

247sports ranks Johnson as a 5-star prospect and Penn State will be unable to replace him with a player of similar quality.

Johnson, Hackenberg and Breneman would have been a great offensive trio and Hackenberg must be disappointed to lose out on his future blindside protector.

Bill O'Brien should disconnect his phone until National Signing Day.