Penn State football enthusiasts have ample reason to celebrate as standout running backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen have announced their return for the 2025 season. This dynamic duo’s decision to forgo the NFL Draft and remain with the Nittany Lions is poised to significantly enhance the team’s offensive capabilities in the upcoming year.
**Nicholas Singleton’s Impact**
Since joining Penn State as a five-star recruit in 2022, Singleton has been a formidable force in the backfield. Over 41 career games, he has accumulated 2,912 rushing yards and 32 rushing touchdowns, placing him 10th on Penn State’s all-time rushing list and fifth in rushing touchdowns. His 2024 season was particularly impressive, with Singleton surpassing 1,000 rushing yards for the second time, recording 1,099 yards on the ground, 12 rushing touchdowns, 375 receiving yards, and five receiving touchdowns.
Singleton’s decision to return is driven by unfinished business and a commitment to team goals. He expressed his intentions, stating, “We still have goals we want to reach as a team and I want to be alongside my teammates as we reach those goals.”
**Kaytron Allen’s Contributions**
Kaytron Allen, a four-star recruit from the same 2022 class, has been equally impactful. In his 42 career games, Allen has amassed 2,877 rushing yards and 24 rushing touchdowns, ranking 11th on Penn State’s all-time rushing list, just 35 yards behind Singleton. The 2024 season marked a milestone for Allen as he achieved his first 1,000-yard rushing season, totaling 1,108 yards and eight touchdowns.
Allen’s return is fueled by a desire to continue the journey with his teammates and achieve greater success. He remarked, “Through discussions with [my family, coaches, and teammates], it’s clear that we still have a lot more to accomplish as a team at Penn State.”
**Chasing History**
Both Singleton and Allen are on the cusp of breaking longstanding records at Penn State. The all-time rushing record, set by Evan Royster in 2010 with 3,932 yards, is within reach for both players. Singleton needs 1,021 yards, while Allen requires 1,055 yards to surpass this milestone. Given their 2024 performances, achieving these targets in the 2025 season is a realistic prospect.
Additionally, Singleton is closing in on the all-time rushing touchdowns record. With 32 career rushing touchdowns, he is just 12 shy of breaking Saquon Barkley’s record of 43, set in 2017. Considering Singleton has achieved 12 rushing touchdowns in two of his three seasons, this record is well within his grasp.
**Implications for the 2025 Season**
The return of Singleton and Allen ensures that Penn State retains one of the most formidable backfield tandems in college football. Their combined experience, leadership, and talent are expected to drive the Nittany Lions’ offense, providing stability and explosiveness. Head coach James Franklin and the coaching staff will undoubtedly leverage their skills to pursue championship aspirations.
Moreover, their presence will be invaluable for quarterback Drew Allar, who also announced his return for the 2025 season. The continuity in the offensive lineup bodes well for team chemistry and performance.
In conclusion, the decisions of Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen to return for the 2025 season not only bolster Penn State’s offensive prospects but also set the stage for potential historic achievements. Their commitment reflects a shared determination to elevate the Nittany Lions to new heights in the collegiate football landscape.
