Penn State's record-breaking rusher faces draft day doubts. Discover why this powerful running back's NFL future might surprise scouts.
Penn State appears to have a prospect with a great chance to go in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Offensive lineman Olaivavega Ioane will likely hear his name called on Day 1. Then PSU could have some players picked in Day 2 and Day 3.
Quarterback Drew Allar is getting a lot of buzz before the draft on Thursday. However, he's expected to be a late Day 2 or Day 3 option, even in a weak quarterback draft class.
Another offensive player should have the skills to make an NFL team as a rookie in 2026. But Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz of USA Today has some caution for running back Kaytron Allen.
Allen is known as a power runner, and was the thunder to Nick Singleton’s lightening at Penn State. Allen became the program's all-time leading rusher in 2025 with 4,180 yards.
Even with his steep production, Middlehurst-Schwartz suggested Allen will go later in the draft than sooner.
"For better or worse, everything about Allen's running style is methodical," he wrote. "He's patient and discerning, which allowed him to average 6.2 yards as a senior while also racking up 15 rushing touchdowns. But he can't be counted on to shake anyone in the open field or turn the corner, which means many of his runs die quickly once they reach the second level.
"With little to offer as a pass catcher out of the backfield, Allen might be pigeonholed as a backup option who does the bulk of his damage in third-down scenarios. Even in a thin running back class, he might only garner mid-to-late-round consideration."
Allen and Singleton were expected to be a dynamic duo that could help lead Penn State to a national title in 2025. However, a disappointing season appears to have hurt their draft stock for this spring.
Notre Dame running backs Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price are getting the most love at running back before Thursday, and both could be taken in the first round.
Allen should be a quality addition to any NFL backfield as a Day 2 or Day 3 pick. He could be a huge help in goal line situations or as a back in short downs.