Which Penn State Defensive Stars Will Take the Leap to the NFL in 2025?
As Penn State Football’s 2024 football season rolls on, fans are already starting to wonder which key Nittany Lions will make the leap to the NFL in 2025 and who might return to bolster the team’s ranks for another run next fall.
Penn State has long been a talent pipeline to the NFL, producing top-tier players who excel at the professional level.
This year is no different, as several Nittany Lions on defense are poised to attract attention from NFL scouts.
From defensive ends to safeties, Penn State’s defense has been a cornerstone of its success, and players like Dani Dennis-Sutton, Abdul Carter, and Kevin Winston Jr. could be the next to carry that tradition into the pros.
Here’s a closer look at Penn State’s top defensive prospects, and who may stay or go.
Penn State Football 2025 NFL Draft: Stay or Go
Dani Dennis-Sutton, DE – Go
Dennis-Sutton played in all 13 games in 2023 and returned with high expectations and goals for 2024. With 49 tackles, 9 QB sacks, one fumble recovery, and one INT, Dani may not be as explosive as some other ends, but he’s a consistent problem up front that forces offenses to adjust. A long line of PSU defensive ends have done very well in the NFL, and I expect Dani Dennis-Sutton to do the same.
Zane Durant, DT – Go
Penn State Football head coach James Franklin has been vocal this year regarding the growth and explosiveness of Durant, stating we’re “just now seeing his capabilities.” In the most recent game vs. Illinois, Durant totaled four solo tackles, two tackles for loss, and one QB sack. He’s explosive and blows up offensive lines. Zane, I believe, is ready for the NFL.
Abdul Carter, DE – Go
Widely seen as one of the top defenders in the nation, whether at end or linebacker, Abdul Carter has been described as a Micah Parsons “clone.” With 14 sacks (3 this season), four forced fumbles, and one INT in his career, Carter wreaks havoc against opposing offenses and is regularly double-teamed, allowing other defenders to make plays. Just having Carter on the field is a major advantage for any defense. Carter will declare for the NFL.
Cam Miller, CB – Go
Another strong position for Penn State in the NFL, Cam Miller may be the next corner to join the ranks. Sitting now at 39 tackles, three QB sacks, and one INT, Miller could be a solid, dependable piece for any NFL defense that needs help on the outside. James Franklin has shown the depth and talent his team has at defensive back, and I believe with a solid season extending into the playoffs to show his capability, Miller will declare for the NFL.
Kevin Winston Jr., S – Go
Viewed as one of the top safeties in the nation as 2024 began, Kevin Winston Jr. is an absolute game changer. He’s where he needs to be and punishes receivers downfield. But a long-term injury at the start of the season has set him back, and currently, his status is up in the air. There is no confirmation on when Winston Jr. may return, and you would think he would come back and make a huge impact down the stretch of the season into the playoffs. If Winston Jr. comes out fully healthy and finishes the season well, I definitely expect him to declare for the NFL and take advantage of his high stock and good health.
Riley Thompson, P – Stay
Thompson finished 2023 second all-time at Penn State for highest average punt yardage at 48.8. Playing in 13 games, he has an average of 43.9 yards per punt this year. With only one touchback in his entire college career, Thompson is an accurate kicker that can use his leg to pin defenses back and give coaches a field position advantage. Penn State currently only has one other punter listed as backup, Red Shirt Junior Gabriel Nwosu, so depth at the position is thin. The Nittany Lions currently have NO punt recruits committed for 2025 or 2026 (someone may want to tell them). I think Thompson stays, becoming the highest average punter in Penn State Football history.
MORE: Why Mel Kiper Jr. is So Bullish About Drew Allar in 2025 NFL Draft Class
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He has been recognized for his work as a photographer and has also contributed to various publications including PennLive and The Weather Channel.
Brad is an Air Force veteran, coach and competitive runner that grew up a Nittany Lions fan as his family is originally from the State College area.
His diverse skillset and experiences provide for interesting perspectives on the college football, and sports topics of the day.
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