Penn State's record-setting running back declares for the 2026 NFL Draft

Senior running back Kaytron Allen announced on Tuesday that he is declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft. After a four-year and record-setting collegiate career at Penn State, Allen hopes to take his talents to the next level.

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His statement read:

"First and foremost, I would like to thank God for blessing me with this talent and opportunity to play the sport I love. I want to give a special thank you to my mom, my second mom, and my entire support system for always being there for me through every high and low. Your love, sacrifices, and constant encouragement are the reason I made it this far.

"To coach Franklin, coach Terry, coach Walker, coach Drayton, and coach Seider, thank you for everything you've done over the past four years. You taught me discipline, accountability, and how to push myself when things got hard.

"To my brothers I went to war with from our best and toughest moments, we are locked in forever.

"To Penn State and all the fans who showed up, cheered loud, and supported me through every high and low, your energy and dedication never went unnoticed and made every game feel meaningful.

"After trusting the process and reflecting on this journey, I've decided to declare for the 2026 NFL Draft and follow where God is leading me next.

"We are!"

Kaytron Allen declares for the 2026 NFL Draft

Allen was the backup, though equally important, running back up until his senior year. He broke out as the clear top rusher from non-conference play and interim head coach Terry Smith harped on his momentum after taking over head coaching duties.

Over his career, Allen accumulated 4,180 rushing yards and 39 touchdowns on 769 carries. He led the Big Ten in 2025 in rushing scores with 15 as well. In the pass game, Allen caught 70 passes for 490 yards and four receiving touchdowns.

Slowly each season since his true freshman run in 2022, he improved year after year. He eclipsed the 1,000-rushing yard mark as a junior with 1,108 yards then jumped to 1,303 rushing yards in 2025.

Against Nebraska in the 2025 regular season, Allen made history. The running back passed rusher Saquon Barkley on Penn State's all-time rushing yards leader list. He quickly surpassed the NFL running back, doing so in the first quarter of the game. Later in that game, Allen continued making history and became the Nittany Lions' top all-time rusher in program history. Evan Royster previously held the record, and Allen surpassed his 3,932 yards to earn that title.