​Alijah Carnell, a three-star prospect out of Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, initially committed to Iowa State. As a freshman in 2024, Carnell saw action in two games and recorded two tackles. The following year, in 2025, he earned playing time in six games, tallying six tackles and half a sack. In January 2026, Carnell chose to follow head coach Matt Campbell to Penn State, seeking new opportunities with the Nittany Lions.
As of now, there is no official depth chart released, but Carnell is in a position to contend for a rotational role during the upcoming season. The projected starters at defensive tackle are redshirt senior transfers Siale Taupaki and Keanu Williams, which narrows the path to a starting spot for Carnell. At a weight of 299 pounds, Carnell sits roughly 20 to 30 pounds lighter than the two presumed starters, a difference that could influence how quickly he earns meaningful snaps and develops within the Penn State defensive system. His progression will be particularly important as Penn State is poised to introduce new starting defensive tackles in 2027, signaling a transition period for the entire defensive line.
Carnell’s move to Penn State represents a strategic shift for his career, positioning him to contribute in a competitive Big Ten environment while continuing to grow under a defense that emphasizes interior pressure and disruptive line play. His development over the next season will be watched closely by coaches and evaluators as he works to translate his early college production into a more prominent role within Penn State’s defensive front. With the season opener approaching in roughly two months, Carnell’s readiness, depth at the defensive tackle position, and the overall rotation will be key factors in how quickly he can carve out a consistent role on the field. For fans and analysts, the next chapter of Carnell’s college journey at Penn State will be one to monitor, especially given the program’s emphasis on building a versatile and stout front that can adapt to multiple fronts and personnel packages.
As the team prepares for the upcoming campaign, Carnell’s potential contribution stands out as a storyline to watch. While Taupaki and Williams appear set as the anchors at defensive tackle, the true depth and impact behind them could hinge on Carnell’s ability to absorb the playbook, adjust to the higher level of competition, and deliver productive snaps in a rotational scheme. If he develops the strength, technique, and consistency needed, Carnell could emerge as a valuable option for Penn State’s interior rush and run defense as they prepare to defend a highly competitive conference schedule. The 2027 projection adds additional incentive for him to maximize his growth, as the team anticipates changes on the defensive line and looks to establish a sustainable depth chart at defensive tackle.
Countdown to kickoff: only 56 days remain until the season-opener, a milestone that underscores the urgency for Carnell to demonstrate progress in fall camp and secure a meaningful role in the rotation. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how Carnell translates prior college experiences into productive play for Penn State, how his weight and conditioning influence his role, and how quickly he can contribute to a defensive line that aims to be disruptive, durable, and versatile in high-stakes conference play. In the broader context, Carnell’s trajectory at Penn State could serve as a microcosm of the program’s approach to integrating new talent and developing it within a competitive, evolving defensive framework.