Penn State’s offense is getting a major facelift for the 2026 season, with a near-complete turnover in key positions. Gone are last season’s quarterback, running backs, wide receivers, and four of the five starting offensive linemen. As spring practice approaches, three positions are heating up with competition.
Running Back
For the first time in four years, Penn State’s backfield won’t feature Nick Singleton or Kaytron Allen. Instead, the Nittany Lions have tapped into the transfer portal, bringing in Carson Hansen from Iowa State and James Peoples from Ohio State. Matt Campbell, in his National Signing Day address, highlighted their potential as a formidable duo.
Hansen, a two-time Gatorade Player of the Year from Minnesota, was the Cyclones’ go-to tailback, racking up 1,769 yards and 19 touchdowns over the past two seasons. His standout 2025 season earned him a second-team All-Big 12 nod, with five consecutive games over 100 yards.
“Every day is a chance to prove you’re the guy,” Hansen remarked. “That’s the mindset in our running back room.”
Peoples arrives in Happy Valley eager to step out from behind the shadows of Bo Jackson and CJ Donaldson at Ohio State. Despite limited touches, he was efficient, amassing 344 yards and three touchdowns on 61 carries last season.
“I see no weaknesses in my game, but there’s always room to grow,” Peoples stated.
Adding to the mix is Quinton Martin Jr., who impressed in the Pinstripe Bowl with 101 yards on 20 carries. Campbell is pushing Martin to bulk up from 205 to 220 pounds, believing he’s poised for something special.
“I love Penn State. This place is home,” Martin declared.
Center
With Nick Dawkins moving on, the center position is up for grabs between Texas State transfer Brock Riker and returning player Dominic Rulli.
Riker, fresh off a freshman All-American season, was a hot commodity in the transfer portal, drawing interest from top programs like Alabama and Oklahoma.
“I’m a scrappy player, always bringing intensity,” Riker said.
Rulli, who backed up Dawkins and served on special teams, isn’t stepping aside easily. He started at center in the Pinstripe Bowl and is determined to make the role his own.
“I’m here to compete and prove I’m the starter,” Rulli asserted.
Left Tackle
With Drew Shelton’s departure, the left tackle spot is open for competition between Garrett Sexton and Owen Aliciene.
Sexton, who backed up at right tackle last season, has seen some action at left tackle and is ready to step into a leadership role.
“I’m settling in and taking on more responsibility,” Sexton noted.
Aliciene, having appeared in one game last season, has been praised for his potential and is eager to seize the opportunity amidst the lineup changes.
“We’ve all been grinding hard this winter,” Aliciene said. “I’m ready to capitalize on my chance.”
As Penn State reshapes its offense, these position battles will be crucial in defining the team’s success in the upcoming season. Fans should keep an eye on these competitions as the Nittany Lions look to build a cohesive and dynamic unit.