2026 class linebacker Charles Belser, from Imhotep Institute in Pennsylvania, is slowly getting recognition among college football programs. He has already received offers from Duke, Indiana, Notre Dame, Penn State and Virginia Tech.
The Syracuse Orange have entered the race by extending an offer to the 6-2, 215-pound Belser for their 2026 class. On Wednesday, the prospect shared the news on X, writing:
"Blessed to say I have received my 7th offer from Syracuse University @Coach_RWright @cy_woodland @yusuftribble @TepFootball."
Charles Belser isn’t yet ranked by recruiting channels like On3, 247 Sports and Rivals. But with a strong junior season, he is expected to attract attention from even more prestigious programs and earn a ranking on the major recruiting boards.
Syracuse has three-star running back D'Antae Sheffey committed to the 2026 class. It also remains in context for blue-chip prospects like Immanuel Iheanacho, Brandon Arrington, Jabari Brady, Calvin Russell, Keenyi Pepe, Izayia Williams and Kenneth Goodwin.
Which programs are in the mix for Charles Belser's commitment?
Charles Belser is still early in his recruitment journey. He has just received his seventh offer, and more are undoubtedly on the way. The prospect hasn’t yet revealed his favorite list or commitment date, but some programs are already projected to be in the mix for him.
According to the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine, Penn State is emerging as the clear frontrunner in Belser’s recruitment, with an 85.7% chance of securing his commitment. He made an unofficial visit to Happy Valley on July 26.
"I like everything," Charles Belser told 247Sports. "Its the stadium, the facilities, the coaches, the culture. I feel like everything up there is really good."
The Nittany Lions have six players committed to the 2026 class, which ranks No. 3 in the nation. It features edge rusher Daniel Jennings, interior offensive lineman Kevin Brown, running back Messiah Mickens, wide receiver Jahsiear Rogers, quarterback Troy Huhn and wide receiver Lavar Keys.
While Penn State seems to be in a commanding position, other programs are still in the mix. The Kent State Golden Flashes have a 3.6% chance, the Virginia Tech Hokies 3.1% and the Duke Blue Devils 2.6%, according to the same On3 model.
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