
In a significant development within college football recruiting, Andrew Olesh, a highly regarded four-star tight end from Pennsylvania, has shifted his commitment from the University of Michigan to Penn State University.
This decision, announced on December 6, 2024, has generated considerable attention, given Olesh’s status as one of the top prospects in the 2025 recruiting class.
Olesh, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 215 pounds, hails from Southern Lehigh High School. His senior year was marked by impressive achievements, including setting school records with 75 receptions for 1,105 yards in a single season, and career totals of 156 receptions and 2,354 yards. These accomplishments underscore his exceptional talent and potential at the collegiate level.
Initially, Olesh committed to Michigan in July 2024. However, after a series of visits to other institutions, including Penn State, Oregon, and Notre Dame, he reevaluated his decision. Ultimately, Olesh felt a stronger connection with Penn State’s coaching staff and the program’s proven track record of developing NFL-caliber tight ends. He stated, “I felt like at Penn State, I’m the most comfortable with all coaching staff, all the players I’ve developed relationships with.”
Penn State’s recent history of producing standout tight ends likely influenced Olesh’s decision. Under Head Coach James Franklin, the program has seen players like Mike Gesicki, Pat Freiermuth, Brenton Strange, and Theo Johnson advance to the NFL, with Gesicki, Freiermuth, and Strange being second-round picks. The current success of tight end Tyler Warren, who has garnered Heisman Trophy buzz and is projected as a first-round NFL draft pick, further highlights the program’s strength in this position.
Olesh’s commitment is a significant boost for Penn State’s 2025 recruiting class. According to the 247Sports Composite rankings, he is the top-ranked player in Pennsylvania and the third-ranked tight end nationally. His addition elevates the overall standing of Penn State’s recruiting efforts, reflecting the program’s ability to attract top-tier talent.
The decision to decommit from Michigan was not easy for Olesh. He expressed respect for the Wolverines’ program and coaching staff, acknowledging the difficulty of changing his commitment. “I mean, I love Michigan. I love all the coaches and staff there. I just felt like it was right to go to Penn State,” Olesh remarked.
Looking ahead, Olesh plans to enroll at Penn State in January, where he will begin an intensive training regimen aimed at increasing his size and enhancing his blocking skills. He recognizes the importance of these areas in transitioning to the collegiate level and contributing effectively to the Nittany Lions’ offense. “I really need to put on weight and get better at blocking,” Olesh noted, expressing confidence in Penn State’s coaching staff to facilitate his development.
Olesh’s commitment to Penn State not only strengthens their future roster but also underscores the dynamic nature of college football recruiting, where relationships and program fit play crucial roles in a prospect’s decision-making process. As he embarks on this new chapter, Olesh aims to follow in the footsteps of Penn State’s successful tight ends, contributing to the team’s success and aspiring toward a future in professional football.