With the 2025 season on the horizon, Penn State’s roster is drawing national attention. Twelve Nittany Lions have been named to major preseason watch lists across all phases of the game. From quarterback Drew Allar to long snapper Tyler Duzansky, the selections highlight the program’s depth and talent. Below is a chronological breakdown of the announcements, with details on each player’s inclusion and a look back at Penn State’s past winners for these awards.
Watch List Selections Spotlight Penn State’s 2025 Potential
Allar, Allen, and Singleton Earn Maxwell Award Recognition
Penn State opened the preseason with Allar, Kaytron Allen, and Nicholas Singleton all securing spots on the Maxwell Award watch list. The Maxwell honors college football’s best overall player. Allar enters his senior season with more than 6,300 passing yards and 53 touchdowns. Allen and Singleton combine power, speed, and experience in the backfield. Historically, seven Nittany Lions have captured this award, including John Cappelletti in 1973, Kerry Collins in 1994, and Larry Johnson in 2002.
Durant, Harris, and Ioane Recognized for Outland and Nagurski
Senior defensive tackle Zane Durant landed on both the Outland Trophy list, honoring top interior linemen, and the Bronko Nagurski Trophy list for elite defensive players. Junior corner A.J. Harris also joined the Nagurski group. Redshirt junior guard Olaivavega “Vega” Ioane appeared alongside Durant on the Outland list. Durant recorded 11 tackles for loss in 2024. Harris displayed steady coverage skills, and Ioane anchored a line as that consistently controlled the point of attack, and was their mauler in the run game. Penn State’s only Outland winner is Mike Reid (1969), while the program still seeks its first Nagurski honoree.
Cousins and Peña Named to Wuerffel and Hornung Lists
Sophomore lineman Cooper Cousins earned a place on the Wuerffel Trophy list, which spotlights community service and leadership. Redshirt senior wide receiver Trebor Peña secured a spot on the Paul Hornung Award list for his ability to impact multiple phases of the game. Cousins has made a mark through charitable outreach and leadership roles. Peña offers value as a pass catcher, ball carrier, and return specialist. The Wuerffel went to Nick Dawkins in 2024, while Saquon Barkley claimed the Hornung in 2017.
Allar, Singleton, and Duzansky Secure Walter Camp and Mannelly Spots
Quarterback Allar and running back Singleton joined the Walter Camp Player of the Year list, one of the oldest and most respected individual honors in the sport. Past Penn State recipients include Cappelletti in 1973 and Johnson in 2002. Additionally, long snapper Tyler Duzansky appeared on the Patrick Mannelly Award list, which celebrates the nation’s top long snapper. The Nittany Lions have yet to claim that award.
Allen and Singleton Tabbed for Doak Walker Award
The Doak Walker Award watch list featured Allen and Singleton. The award goes to the nation’s premier running back. Singleton enters 2025 as the FBS leader among returners in career rushing yards and touchdowns. Allen’s production sits close behind. The only Penn State player to win the Doak Walker remains Larry Johnson in 2002.
Peña and Ross Make Biletnikoff Watch List
Penn State’s passing attack gained recognition. Peña and senior transfer Devonte Ross made the Biletnikoff Award watch list for the country’s top receiver. Peña provides quickness and reliable hands in the slot. Ross stretches defenses vertically with his speed. Bobby Engram won the first Biletnikoff in 1994 and is still the only Nittany Lion to do so.
Allar Named to Davey O’Brien Award List
Allar picked up another honor by earning a spot on the Davey O’Brien Award watch list for the nation’s best quarterback. His combination of efficiency and leadership could make him Penn State’s third winner. The program’s past honorees are Todd Blackledge in 1982 and Kerry Collins in 1994.
Dinkins Earns Mackey Award Watch List Spot
Tight end Khalil Dinkins earned a place on the John Mackey Award list on August 8. The redshirt senior is expected to play a larger role this year. He follows Tyler Warren, who became the first Penn State tight end to win the Mackey in 2024.
Dennis-Sutton, Durant, and Harris Named to Bednarik List
The Chuck Bednarik Award watch list included Dani Dennis-Sutton, Durant, and Harris. This award honors the nation’s best defensive player. Penn State’s history with the Bednarik is strong, with winners like LaVar Arrington in 1999, Paul Posluszny in both 2005 and 2006, and Dan Connor in 2007.
Durant and Ioane Land on Lombardi Award List
Durant and Ioane earned spots on the Rotary Lombardi Award list, which recognizes top linemen and linebackers. Past Nittany Lion winners include Bruce Clark in 1978 and Carl Nassib in 2015.
Eyes on Hardware and History
With star power across every position group, the Nittany Lions are positioned to compete for both individual accolades and a shot at college football’s biggest stage. The watch list nods are only the beginning. If this group delivers on its potential, the program could add new names to its long list of award winners, while pushing for championships that define eras in Happy Valley.
Main Image:Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images
