The annual NFL Draft season is now officially underway, with an exciting development for Penn State football. Nine of their standout players have earned coveted invitations to the NFL Draft Combine, which is set to take place in Indianapolis from February 23 to March 2. This event is a crucial platform for these athletes to demonstrate their skills and potential to professional scouts and team executives. Among the invitees are quarterback Drew Allar and running back Nick Singleton, both of whom are recovering from recent injuries but are expected to participate. Their strong collegiate careers, marked by significant yardage and numerous touchdowns, highlight their readiness for the next level. Other notable attendees include running back Kaytron Allen, tight end Khalil Dinkins, offensive linemen Vega Ioane and Drew Shelton, defensive linemen Dani Dennis-Sutton and Zane Durant, and safety Zakee Wheatley, all eager to prove their worth on the national stage.
Penn State's Elite Showcase Talents at the 2026 NFL Combine
In a significant announcement for collegiate football, nine exceptional athletes from Penn State have secured invitations to the esteemed 2026 NFL Draft Combine. This pivotal event, which commenced on February 23rd and concludes on March 2nd in Indianapolis, provides an unparalleled opportunity for these aspiring professionals to impress NFL scouts and coaches. Among the highly anticipated participants are quarterback Drew Allar and running back Nick Singleton, both of whom are currently recuperating from injuries. Allar sustained his injury during the challenging Northwestern game, while Singleton's setback occurred during practices leading up to the Senior Bowl. Despite these recent physical challenges, their presence at the combine underscores their immense talent and potential.
Drew Allar concluded his collegiate career with an impressive record, accumulating 7,402 passing yards and 61 touchdowns, while maintaining a remarkably low interception rate of only 13. Nick Singleton, a dynamic force in the backfield, amassed 4,448 rushing yards and 54 touchdowns. His running back counterpart, Kaytron Allen, also showcased exceptional prowess, tallying 4,670 yards and 43 touchdowns. These statistics highlight the formidable offensive capabilities that Penn State's program has cultivated.
Tight end Khalil Dinkins, who recorded 399 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, is expected to significantly boost his draft stock through his exceptional blocking abilities. Offensive linemen Vega Ioane and Drew Shelton, who consistently anchored the left side of the offensive line for several seasons, played a crucial role in enabling the success of the formidable running back duo. Their steadfast performance was instrumental in creating opportunities for their teammates.
On the defensive side of the ball, Dani Dennis-Sutton, a dominant pass rusher, concluded his final season with an outstanding 23.5 quarterback takedowns, including 8.5 sacks. Zane Durant, an undersized but exceptionally quick defensive tackle, is eager to display his speed and agility at the combine, having contributed 25 tackles during his four seasons with the Nittany Lions. Lastly, Zakee Wheatley, a stalwart of the secondary for five seasons, accumulated 222 tackles, solidifying his reputation as a reliable and impactful player. Wheatley's attendance offers him the chance to continue the proud tradition of Penn State safeties making a successful transition to the NFL.
The extensive representation from Penn State at this year's NFL Combine is a testament to the program's enduring strength and its ability to develop top-tier talent. It reflects a commitment to excellence and a pipeline of athletes ready to make their mark in professional football. This showcase not only provides a platform for individual players to shine but also reinforces Penn State's reputation as a premier institution for nurturing future NFL stars.