Former Penn State football running back Nick Singleton was drafted by the Tennessee Titans with the No. 165 overall pick in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Singleton becomes the first running back to be drafted out of Happy Valley since Miles Sanders was selected in the second round by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2019.

With the No. 165 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Tennessee Titans select Nick Singleton. pic.twitter.com/SqAdlhgt8N

— Onward State (@OnwardState) April 25, 2026

Singleton solidified himself as one of Penn State’s all-time great running backs despite a down year in 2025. He became the Nittany Lions’ all-time rushing touchdowns leader with 45, all-purpose yards leader with 5,586, and total career touchdowns with 55.

Singleton was tabbed as an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention as a return specialist by coaches and media, and by the media as a running back in 2025. His most prolific collegiate season came in 2024, where he rushed for 1,099 yards and 12 touchdowns en route to a College Football Playoff semifinal appearance. His career highlight in the blue and white stands as his 87-yard touchdown against Utah in the 2023 Rose Bowl.

However, Singleton rushed for the lowest yardage total of his career with just 549 in his final season. He lacked the explosiveness he had displayed over the previous three seasons, hurting his draft stock. In addition, Singleton broke his foot during Senior Bowl practice in January, forcing him to miss the NFL Combine.

Nevertheless, Singleton provides the Titans with consistent backfield pass-catching production and extensive kick-return experience. He is also clearly suited for a running back by committee. Singleton will join Tony Pollard and Tajae Spears behind quarterback Cam Ward in Tennessee’s backfield.

While Singleton was outshone by Allen for much of 2025, he still brings prototypical size and speed to the professional level, especially on third down. He’s going to have to work to make a true name for himself on Robert Saleh’s team, but Nick the Quick is now an NFL running back.

Singleton is the sixth Penn Stater to hear their name called at the 2026 NFL Draft.

Folks can follow along to see which other Nittany Lions are selected on day three of the draft on ESPN, ABC, and NFL Network.