Purdue football is gearing up for a crucial matchup against the second-ranked Indiana Hoosiers on Friday night, which serves as a significant opportunity to showcase the program to potential recruits. The game at Ross-Ade Stadium will welcome several top prospects, including three players anticipated to join the 2026 signing class.
Among those visiting are defensive lineman Kobe Cherry from Center Grove, whose older brother currently plays as a backup quarterback for Indiana. Also in attendance will be edge rusher Max Carmicle from Hillcrest High in Illinois and linebacker Bradey Sweeney from Catholic Central in Michigan. Another notable visitor is Jojo Johnson, a wide receiver from Virginia who is currently committed to Coastal Carolina, but recently received an offer from Purdue.
In addition to these key 2026 recruits, the Boilermakers will host various promising athletes across different classes.
For the 2027 class, highlights include wide receiver Charles “Chuck” Alexander from Withrow, defensive end Jayce Brewer from Franklin Central, and defensive lineman David Folorunsho from St. Patrick in Illinois. Brewer stands out with 26 offers, including 18 from Big Ten or SEC schools, making this his third visit to Purdue this season. Folorunsho has also attracted attention, holding six Power 4 offers, most notably from Miami. Cornerback Dre Otey, sibling of Purdue freshman Zyntreacs Otey, has garnered 16 offers.
Looking ahead to the 2028 class, prospects include Markell Bailey and Corderro Bennett, both wide receivers, along with defensive lineman Julian Dwyer, running back Lamar Osterhues, and quarterback Joshua Rogers. Osterhues has an offer from Iowa State, while Bennett received an offer from Purdue last month. Dwyer has garnered attention from Cincinnati and Indiana and is a teammate of recently committed tight end Cooper McCutchan, further strengthening connections within the recruiting landscape.
This game not only represents a chance for the Boilermakers to make an impact on the field but also to foster relationships with future stars who could significantly shape the trajectory of the program. As the season finale approaches, anticipation builds for both the game and the recruiting potential it presents.