2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Nicholas Singleton (RB – Penn State)

FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in February. Here’s a look at Penn State running back Nicholas Singleton.

2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Nicholas Singleton

Nicholas Singleton (RB – Penn State)

6-foot-0 | 224 Pounds

Background

Nicholas Singleton was a five-star recruit who stepped right into a major role with the Nittany Lions, splitting carries evenly with Kaytron Allen and leading the team in rushing, posting a 156-1,061-12 (6.8) line with 11 catches.

Continued in that split backfield in 2023, with 171-762-8 (4.4) and 26-308-2 receiving. Recorded a rushing line of 172-1,099-12 (6.4) and 41-375-5 receiving line in 2024. Functioned as more of the second back in 2025, with 123-549-13 (4.5) rushing and 24-219-1 receiving.

Positives

Four-year contributor with 31 career starts under his belt. Well-built runner with prototypical size for a pro back, but was actually in a somewhat interesting role where he’d occasionally line up in the slot and motion across. Smooth runner who can stretch the field horizontally a bit before finding a hole and cutting it upfield. Decisive once he sees the hole and shows some burst through to get upfield quickly. His style should appeal to teams that favor more no-nonsense approaches.

Singleton’s top-end speed is impressive for his size. Might be more of a chunk runner, but still has solid wheels. Shows impressive contact balance to stay on his feet through glancing blows. Does a nice job of finishing his runs by falling forward, with impressive lower-body strength, good leg drive and competitiveness after contact. Racked up a bunch of touchdowns as a goal-line back.

The Penn State prospect protected the ball increasingly well, with only six career fumbles. His role as a receiver was pretty considerable, going beyond the typical flats, swings and safety-valve type throws. Runs some seams and wheel routes. Also has some experience as a kick returner (one career touchdown).

Negatives

Ended up falling behind Kaytron Allen this past year as the team shifted to a more gap-heavy scheme, with his least productive/efficient season in school. Would like to see him run with a little bit more knee-bend. Smoother than he is explosive. Wasn’t quite the home-run hitter you might expect given his reputed timed speed.

More thudding than explosive into contact. Can sometimes struggle to bring in passes away from his frame. Doesn’t look the most flexible in terms of his overall body control. Dropped 11 passes against 102 career receptions, suggesting hands that are closer to average. Primarily used as a receiver and hasn’t been effective as a pass protector despite his size. Engages from his feet, but doesn’t have ideal contact balance.

Summary

A well-built, surprisingly smooth bowling ball of a back who does a nice job of pinballing off of contact to finish runs for additional yardage. Usage as a receiver was more extensive than usual.

While Singleton is not quite as explosive as his workout numbers may suggest and needs to continue improving in blitz pickup. Is an effective between-the-tackles back who finishes well in short-yardage situations and near the goal line.

Projection: Round 3/Round 4