Alijah Carnell was a three-star prospect from Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas when he committed to Iowa State. He appeared in two games during his freshman season in 2024, making two tackles. In 2025, he appeared in six games and made six tackles and 0.5 sacks. He decided to follow Matt Campbell to Penn State in January of 2026.

There is no official depth chart yet, but Carnell has a shot to move up into a rotational role this season. Redshirt senior transfers Siale Taupaki and Keanu Williams are the projected starters, leaving little room for Carnell to get a starting spot this season. At just 299 pounds, Carnell is 20 to 30 pounds lighter than the two starters. His development will be important to watch, as Penn State will break in new starting defensive tackles in 2027.

Only 56 more days until the season opener!