Penn State running back Nicholas Singleton csl his touchdown during the second quarter of the Orange Bowl on Jan. 9, 2025. Joe Hermitt | jhermitt@pennlive.com
Kaytron Allen, Nick Singleton chasing Penn State’s all-time rushing record: Lions’ offseason storylines
Evan Royster is Penn State’s all-time leading rusher. He ran for 3,932 yards from 2007 through 2010.
Royster is one of the most underrated players in PSU history. Royster was deceptively quick and could do damage inside and out. Royster’s vision and balance were also assets.
Meet The 2025 Class: WR Lyrick Samuel
From New York City to Happy Valley, Lyrick Samuel brings some big play potential.
What makes you excited about Lyrick Samuel?
Ryan: Samuel enrolled early at Penn State, which should give him plenty of time to get reps in a legitimate offensive scheme, which he did not have in high school. His 6-foot-4 frame, natural speed, and stand-out performance at last summer’s Elite 11 camp should be enough for Penn State’s training staff to get to work.
What worries you about Lyrick Samuel?
Patrick: I like the upside of a player like Samuel and am totally on board with taking a swing on his archetype – tall, springy, athletic, etc – but there’s going to need to be a lot of development for Samuel on the field (route running) and in the weight room (Penn State had him listed at 170 pounds) for him to reach his potential. Right now, he’s more theoretical than anything.
Do you think Lyrick Samuel will be redshirted next season? Around what point of his career do you think he pushes for meaningful playing time?
Clay: Unless Samuel has an absolutely massive spring practice, I think he’s headed for a redshirt. He played low-level high school ball in an offense that couldn’t even really get him the ball (no offense to his high school QB). This is a future play by PSU.
What do you think is the most realistic outcome for Lyrick Samuel: depth provider, rotational/one-year starter, multi-year starter, all-conference, or all-american?
Clay: Depth provider, but if this one hits it has the chance to hit big for an all-conference type of player.
Ryan: Depth provider
Patrick: Depth provider
Lastly, where do you have Lyrick Samuel ranked in Penn State’s class?
Clay: No. 22
Ryan: No. 23
Patrick: No. 24
Industry Consensus via On3: No. 12
