For three years, Kaytron Allen was one half of the nation’s best running back duo. He was the thunder to Nick Singleton’s lightning.
In 2026, the backfield belongs to him.
With Singleton declaring for the NFL Draft, Allen returns for his senior season as the undisputed RB1. It is the moment Penn State fans—and Allen himself—have been waiting for: a chance to see what “Fatman” can do with 25 carries a game.
The Scouting Report: Consistency Personified
Allen isn’t the flashiest back in the country, but he might be the most consistent. His game is built on elite vision, contact balance, and a refusal to lose yardage.
Strengths:
- Vision: Allen processes blocking schemes instantly. He finds the “C” gap before it opens.
- Yards After Contact: Per Pro Football Focus, Allen averaged 3.8 yards after contact in 2025, one of the best marks in the Power 4.
- Pad Level: At 5’11” and 222 pounds, he runs with natural leverage. He is rarely tackled by a single defender.
Career Analysis: The “1A” Becomes “1”
To understand what Allen can do in 2026, we have to look at his efficiency when he was sharing the load.
| Category | 2025 Stats (Shared) | 2026 Projection (Solo) |
|---|---|---|
| Carries/Game | 19.1 | 24.5 |
| Rushing Yards | 1,385 | 1,600+ |
| Touchdowns | 15 | 18+ |
| Yards/Carry | 5.8 | 5.5 |
Analyst Note: Historically, running backs see a slight dip in efficiency (YPC) when their volume doubles, but Allen’s running style—which minimizes negative plays—suggests he can handle the heavy workload without wearing down.
2026 Season Outlook
Offensive Coordinator Taylor Mouser arrives from Iowa State with a history of feeding a lead back (see: Breece Hall). This matches perfectly with Allen’s skill set.
The Role:
- Base Downs: Allen will be the workhorse on 1st and 2nd down.
- Goal Line: He has been the preferred goal-line back for two years. Expect 15+ touchdowns.
- Passing Game: This is the area for growth. With Singleton gone, Allen must prove he can be a reliable check-down option for Rocco Becht.
Antigravity’s 2026 Stat Projection:
- 1,650 Rushing Yards
- 18 Rushing TDs
- 30 Receptions
- Result: First-Team All-Big Ten & Doak Walker Finalist
The Verdict
Kaytron Allen has already cemented his legacy as Penn State’s all-time rushing leader. But 2026 is about more than records; it’s about proving he is an elite NFL prospect in his own right. Without the shadow of Nick Singleton, Allen has the stage to himself. Expect a punishing, physical season that reminds the Big Ten why they call it “Linebacker U” and “RBI” (Running Back U).