Monroe makes it Penn State

Washington (D.C.) St. John's College High athlete Ayron Monroe started to gather a lot of recruiting momentum in recent months. However, when he received his offer from Penn State it was different from those of Maryland, Virginia, Boston College and other local schools.

"I wasn't really a fan of Penn State, I liked them because I went to the camp last year and the coaches from last year were close to offering but didn't. The new coaching staff offered the first time they saw me so they had faith in me," said Monroe who committed to Penn State on Saturday. "The last time I visited was for the Spring Game and I didn't know I was going to commit but thinking about it I liked Penn State and Maryland a lot and in the end I just felt Penn State was a better fit."

The 6-foot-1, 195-pounder is being recruited as a safety at Penn State and the opportunity is great.

"They lost a couple of safeties and a few others that will be drafted next year so I know the spot will be kind of open," he said. "So I know I can compete right away and contribute my freshman year. I've been going to the same schools and sports teams as my brother (Maryland defensive lineman Andre Monroe so I thought this was a great opportunity to make my own path. He kinda wanted me to go to Maryland with him but he respects my choice and understands."

Monroe felt good with the new Penn State staff.

"James Franklin knows my family really well because he recruited my brother at Maryland and my recruiting coach is coach Huff and he's a great guy. The defensive backs coach is coach Shoop and I talked to him a lot and he knows a lot about football," he said. "It helps that there was a comfort level there."

Monroe knew that Penn State was filling up with 2015 commitments as well.

"I knew Penn State was almost full so I knew I couldn't wait until the end of your season. The timing felt right now, no point waiting any longer," he said. "Maryland respected my decision and understand where I'm coming from and wished me the best of luck."

As a junior Monroe player receiver, safety, outside linebacker and kick returner but he will focus on safety as a Nittany Lion. He had about 70+ tackles as a junior, 2 interceptions and about 7 pass breakups as a junior.

"I'm excited about it," he said of the future at Penn State. "I think they are building something special."