Former Penn State running back Kaytron Allen is excited about being closer to home and becoming part of the Washington Commanders 2026 rotation.
After growing talk about what a potential pairing would look like, the dream of Jeremiyah Love to Washington was quickly dashed after materializing into a top five prospect as many expected throughout the offseason. Though it may have happened a bit earlier than expected with the Arizona Cardinals taking him third overall to reset the market at the position, the search for the final piece in the 2026 running back room remained for the Washington Commanders with the answer materializing on day three of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Former Penn State running back Kaytron Allen became the first of two sixth round draft selections by the Commanders, giving the Virginia native a chance to return closer to home.
"It's a blessing, man. Close to the crib," Allen said after being drafted.
Allen arrived in State College as one half of one of the best running back tandems in college football alongside Nick Singeleton, yet it was Allen who proved himself as a dynamic weapon.
Ending his career with 43 total touchdowns and averaging at least five yards per carry in each of his four seasons, Allen eclipsed the 1,000 yard mark in both 2024 and 2025 including a career season in 2025 after registering 1,303 yards and 6.2 yards per carry. Allen also showcased himself as an asset in pass protection while assistant general manager Lance Newmark pointing to him as a "move the line of scrimmage, pile push, power player" type of running back.
Allen ended his career with his first 200 yard rushing game, ending with 226 yards and one touchdown on just 22 carries - a whopping 10.3 yards per carry. He also ended his career with just two fumbles loss, an aspect of his game he takes pride in.
"You got everybody's dreams and aspirations in your hands, so I take great pride in it and that's something I won't do and I take pride in not doing turnovers and stuff," Allen said.
Allen will now look to become the second running back drafted on day three by the Commanders to find success in as many seasons with Jacory Croskey-Merritt anchoring the room ahead of 2026 alongside several running back additions, including Rachaad White. Yet the rookie, nicknamed "Fat Man", looks to add to the rotation with hopes of becoming a fan favorite.
"I was a fat baby and everybody in the town call me Fat Man and hopefully I keep it going in Washington," Allen said. "They call me Fat Man and when I score all you hear is Fat Man."