The story of Penn State’s 2024 defense cannot be told without the absence of K.J. Winston. The Preseason All-American safety suffered a season-ending ACL injury in Week 2 against Bowling Green, altering the trajectory of the Nittany Lions’ secondary.
The Injury and Recovery
Winston’s injury was a partially torn ACL that required surgery in mid-October. Despite missing the season, he remained a team captain and a fixture on the sidelines.
Analysis: The Draft Decision
Instead of returning for a medical redshirt year, Winston declared for the 2025 NFL Draft.
- The Logic: Scouts had already seen enough tape from his sophomore campaign (where he led the team in tackles). Returning risked another injury.
- The Result: Selected by the Tennessee Titans in the 3rd Round (82nd overall).
- Recovery Status: At his Pro Day in March 2025, he ran a 4.50s 40-yard dash, silencing doubts about his knee’s stability.
Penn State Legacy
Winston leaves Penn State as one of the most physically imposing safeties of the James Franklin era. His ability to play in the box (85+ run defense grade in 2023) made him a prototype for the modern NFL durability-safety hybrid.