Penn State Top 10 Players of the 2024 Season: Honorable Mentions

Zakee Wheatley- 12 points

Entering the season, Zakee Wheatley was prepared to back up Kevin Winston Jr. and Jaylen Reed at safety. After Winston suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 2, Wheatley was elevated to a starting role, and he did not disappoint. He finished the season with 96 tackles (3rd on the team), 3 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 3 interceptions (tied for 1st), 2 fumble recoveries (1st), and 1 forced fumble.

Nick Dawkins- 4 points

Nick Dawkins took over at center following Hunter Nourzad’s departure to the NFL. A first-year starter, Dawkins became a vocal leader for one of the best offensive lines in the country in 2024. He was named a team captain prior to the season and finished the year honorable mention for the All-Big Ten team. In December, Dawkins became the first Penn State player to win the Wuerffel Trophy. He started all 16 games at center in the 2024 season.

 

Dawkins decided to return to Penn State for his final year of eligibility in 2025. With arguably the deepest offensive line room in Happy Valley in decades, his leadership will be of utmost importance.

Anthony Donkoh- 3 points

Anthony Donkoh started the season as Penn State’s clear option at right tackle after spending most of the 2023 season at guard. Donkoh had a strong performance in his first season at right tackle and did not allow a sack in 2024. He quickly blossomed into one of Penn State’s best offensive linemen until he suffered a season-ending injury against Minnesota. Fortunately for the Lions, Nolan Rucci stepped up in his absence during the postseason. Donkoh’s status will be a key piece of the puzzle for Penn State’s offensive line as the 2025 season draws closer:

Kobe King- 1 point

Kobe King emerged as the clear leader for the linebackers in 2024. He finished the season with 97 tackles (2nd on the team), 9 tackles for loss (4th), 3 sacks (T-4th), and 1 forced fumble. One of Penn State’s captains, King was named second team All-Big Ten for his efforts. While many of the core players decided to stay in 2025, King opted to declare for the NFL Draft. Replacing him will be one of the biggest question marks for Penn State’s defense in the 2025 season.

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