MMQB: Which Incoming Freshman Will Make the Largest Impact for Penn State in 2017?

After the dust settled on National Signing Day, Penn State welcomed 21 new incoming freshman. The new cohort of Nittany Lions make up the nation’s #15 class, and enter the program with serious aspirations of bringing a national championship to Happy Valley.

With Penn State back to its full allotment of scholarships and James Franklin and company bringing in several talented classes, the strong majority of incoming freshman will be able to redshirt in 2017. However, there will be a few who inevitably see the field as true freshmen, either out of necessity or because they’re able to hit the ground running and contribute immediately.

For today’s question, we ask- which recent signee will have the biggest impact on the field for Penn State in 2017?

I’ll go with the obvious choice in defensive back Lamont Wade. On top of being one of the most talented recruits in the nation, he also has the added luxury of joining the team early and participating in spring ball as an early enrollee. His versatility should also help him see the field. While John Reid and Grant Haley should have the starting cornerback slots locked down, Wade could see the field in relief along with Christian Campbell, as well as in certain packages on passing downs.

There is also no clear replacement for Malik Golden at strong safety, with a wide open competition on the way. Wade could get a look at safety, with the opportunity to start opposite Marcus Allen. It also seems inevitable that a couple players currently listed at cornerback will be moved to safety during the offseason, so if Wade does stay at cornerback he should find a clearer path to the field with less competition in front of him.

So what say you, BSD reader? Which member of the 2017 class will make the biggest impact as a true freshman?