Former Penn State football running back Kaytron Allen was selected No. 187 overall in Round 6 of the 2026 NFL Draft.
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As NFL analysts assess the rookie classes for each club, Scott Dochterman of The Athletic gave Allen his flowers and then some as he kickstarts his professional career with the Washington Commanders.
In fact, Dochterman was shocked that Allen fell that far down in the draft. After a 2025 season that saw him surge as RB1 for the Nittany Lions, some analysts anticipated him being selected earlier.
Regardless, Allen was given his opportunity and Dochterman believes he'll have a chance to showcase his impact early on.
Scott Dochterman says a healthy Kaytron Allen will start games as a rookie Commander
"I can’t believe Allen lasted this long. I usually don’t go on a limb and predict a sixth-rounder will start games as a rookie, but if Allen is healthy, he’s going to start for Washington. He is physical, powerful and durable," Dochterman wrote.
"The Nittany Lions’ all-time rushing leader, Allen ran for 4,180 yards and 39 touchdowns over his four seasons in Happy Valley. Last year, he was by far the most consistent player for Penn State with 1,303 yards and 15 touchdowns, second in the Big Ten in both categories."
Durability will be huge for Allen come training camp. His spot isn't guaranteed regardless of analysts anticipating he can earn a starting role as a rookie.
At the very least, reporters believe that he'll show out enough to earn his spot on the 53 man roster and be a rotational player in the offensive backfield.
"Allen isn’t an athletic freak like his Penn State teammate, Nicholas Singleton, but he has a better feel for the position and maximizes carries with his vision, physicality and body control," Dane Brugler of The Athletic wrote in his pre-draft analysis, "The Beast." "With his run instincts and blocking skills, he projects as a durable backup or low-end starter in the NFL."
Just because Allen fell into Round 6 doesn't mean he won't fight for his opportunity. In 2025, he clearly proved himself and continued building on the success he had over his first three seasons at Penn State. Being RB2 to Singleton up until his senior year didn't define him, his role, or his talent.
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