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, altering the trajectory of the Nittany Lions’ secondary.
But one injury doesn’t erase three years of elite tape. Winston declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, betting on his recovery and his resume.
The Resume: Box Safety Dominance
Before the injury, Winston was arguably the best safety in the Big Ten.
- 2023 Stats: led the team in tackles (60 solo).
- Run Grade: 88.5 (PFF) - Elite for a defensive back.
- Physicality: At 6’2”, 205 lbs, he played like a linebacker.
The Injury Factor
Winston tore his ACL in September 2025.
- Surgery: October 2025 (Successful).
- Timeline: Expected to be cleared for training camp (August 2026).
- Draft Stock: The injury likely pushes him from a 1st Round lock to a Day 2 value pick.
NFL Scouting Report
Strengths:
- Tackling: He rarely misses. He drives through contact.
- Instincts: He reads run/pass keys faster than anyone on the roster.
Weaknesses:
- Durability: The knee is the obvious question.
- Ball Production: Only 1 career interception. He is a hitter, not a ball-hawk.
Draft Projection: The “Value” Pick
- Prediction: 3rd Round.
- Best Fits: Tennessee Titans, Buffalo Bills.
- Verdict: If the medicals check out, Winston will be the steal of the draft. He is a Day 1 starter talent available at a discount.