Mike Gesicki Commits to Penn State: Nittany Lions Land Stud 4-Star TE

With the quick success of quarterback Christian Hackenberg, it is clear that Penn State head coach Bill O'Brien is looking to build around the former 247Sports composite 5-star—and the Nittany Lions brought in another weapon for their stud freshman signal-caller.

On Thursday, Sean Fitz of 247Sports reported that Mike Gesicki, a 4-star and the No. 1 tight end in the nation, according to 247Sports, is now a verbal commit for Penn State.

Gesicki chose PSU over nearly two dozen other programs, including Ohio State, Florida State, Miami, Wisconsin and Notre Dame.

While the Manahawkin, N.J. native ranks 52nd overall in the 247Sports ratings, the 247Sports composite ratings, which factor in all the major recruiting services, aren't as kind. Between all services, he rates as a 3-star and the No. 17 tight end.

Recruiting services aside, Gesicki certainly looks the part.

At 6'5", 236 pounds, Gesicki has been an outstanding tight end at the high school ranks, hauling in 954 receiving yards and nine touchdowns off of 50 receptions.

At Southern Regional, he was named all-state in volleyball and also was a standout on the basketball court.

With Gesicki now in the fold, Penn State's 2014 recruiting class features two wide receivers and a tight end as its top three prospects. PSU already took commitments from 4-star receivers DeAndre Thompkins and Chris Godwin.

The Nittany Lions also claimed commitments from a trio of 3-star offensive skill players: Troy Apke, Nick Scott and Mark Allen.

This will be the second straight season PSU has pulled in a blue-chip tight end. Last year, the Nittany Lions brought in composite 4-star Adam Breneman, who was the No. 2 tight end in the country.

During his time with the New England Patriots, O'Brien coached several tight ends who found on-field success, including Benjamin Watson, Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski.

PSU's current starters at tight end, Jesse James and Kyle Carter, are both sophomores. The duo has combined for 28 receptions for 344 yards and a touchdown thus far this season.