Penn State’s security Kevin Winston Jr., who led the staff in tackles in 2023, shall be sidelined with what coach James Franklin on Wednesday referred to as a “long-term” damage.
Winston, a 6-foot-2, 208-pound junior, suffered the damage within the first quarter of the No. 10 Nittany Lions’ Sept. 7 win over Bowling Inexperienced and didn’t return. A preseason All-America candidate, Winston earned Large Ten Defensive Participant of the Week honors following Penn State’s season-opening win at West Virginia, the place he had a career-high 12 tackles and a compelled fumble.
Franklin didn’t elaborate on Winston’s damage or give a possible timetable for his return.
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Winston had 60 tackles, two fumble recoveries, an interception and 5 go breakups in 2023, his first season as a starter. ESPN NFL draft analysts Mel Kiper, Jordan Reid and Matt Miller all have ranked Winston as their No. 2 security prospect for the 2025 NFL draft.
Winston had been a part of a three-safety rotation, alongside senior Jaylen Reed and junior Zakee Wheatley. Franklin stated that the staff will attempt to get freshman Dejuan Lane elevated time throughout Winston’s absence. Freshman Antoine Belgrave-Shorter additionally ought to have a possibility to play extra.
“That may have a huge effect on Lane and the reps that he is getting and the place he is at,” Franklin stated. “After which we’re attempting to determine that subsequent man proper now.”
After an open week, Penn State returns to the sector Saturday towards Kent State.