A young Penn State receiver navigates quarterback changes and injury woes, revealing his determination to shine in the upcoming season despite past frustrations.
The Penn State Nittany Lions were getting the production they needed out of Drew Allar before the quarterback suffered a season-ending ankle injury against Northwestern in October.
Allar played better against an early cupcake schedule, but struggled against Big Ten defenses.
True freshman wide receiver Koby Howard was an afterthought in the offense while head coach James Franklin was still in charge and Allar was throwing. Howard earned no receptions when Allar was under center.
Things changed for Howard when Ethan Grunkemeyer started in place of Allar. He didn't become Grunkemeyer's top target, but he finished the season with 113 yards on seven catches.
More importantly, he showed what his skill was as a receiver, averaging 19 yards per catch.
Howard recently opened up on his challenges at Penn State last year, saying it was a tough year but he kept his confidence for the 2026 season.
“Last year was rough, obviously,” Howard told reporters on Tuesday, via PennLive. “My confidence never went away, just knowing the player that I am. … Being able to get in the games, it helped me a lot. I’m just ready to attack this year.”
Howard is hoping for better quarterback play.
This spring has brought challenges. Starting quarterback Rocco Becht has been limited a practice as he recovers from two shoulder injuries. Backup quarterback Alex Manske is battling injury.
While Becht hasn't been participating in team drills, Howard noted that the quarterback works with him as best he can during the spring. He thinks the offense will have more fun in 2026 with Becht.
Campbell expects big thinks from Howard.
“Koby’s got great potential,” Campbell said. “That’s his whole thing, is consistency. His potential, you know, (he) made a couple big plays last Saturday, which was awesome to see.
“We were really grateful to have him back and certainly a young guy that we’ve got great expectations for moving forward.”
Howard was one of the key players Campbell retained from Penn State's roster in 2025 when the new head coach brought in 23 players from Iowa State via the transfer portal.
Howard could be primed to have a big season this fall with Becht under center. Howard can be a vertical threat, and that could open up a bunch of things for the offense, including the running game.