Troutman picks the Nittany Lions
Earlier tonight, Browns Mills (N.J.) Pemberton Township defensive end Johnnie Troutman committed to Penn State after a visit from Joe Paterno. The 6-foot-4, 289-pounder picked the Nittany Lions over offers from Maryland, Ohio State, Virginia and others.
"I didn't actually commit when Joe Paterno was here," he said. "I had a little talk with him and then he left and I discussed it with my mom and called coach Vanderlinden and told coach Paterno. They were both really happy I committed and welcomed me to the family."
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What made Troutman decide to head to State College?
"I really liked that it was a lot closer to home," he said. "That was a big factor in my decision. Besides that, I had been there a lot already so I was really comfortable with them too."
The three-star prospect is glad to have a decision behind him.
"I'm happy I'm done because I was getting tired of the whole recruiting process."
Troutman plans to work hard rehabbing his knee so that he'll be ready in time for practice in July.
"My goal is to get it better so that I can come into practice on time," he said. "I feel if I can play I can bring all-around athleticism to their defensive line."
The future business major is happy to join the Penn State family.
"I can't wait to play at Happy Valley in front of all those fans, I'm really excited about everything."