On Friday, Penn State’s football program was hit with a major setback as four-star running back Alvin Henderson flipped his commitment to Auburn. Despite this loss, the Nittany Lions’ depth at the position might help them endure this de-commitment.
Alvin Henderson, a standout from Elba, Alabama, initially committed to play for James Franklin’s team in April. Ranked as the 15th-best running back in the nation by 247Sports, his departure is a blow to Penn State’s 2025 recruiting class. While this loss temporarily drops Penn State out of the top 10 in national recruiting rankings, falling behind conference rivals Rutgers and Wisconsin, it does ease the crowded competition in their backfield.
For the 2024 season, Penn State will continue to rely on junior running backs Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen. Even if either decides to enter the NFL Draft, the Nittany Lions have promising talent in 2023 four-stars Quinton Martin Jr. and Corey Smith ready to step up in Andy Kotelnicki’s offense.
Despite Henderson’s flip, the 2025 recruiting class remains strong at the running back position. Tiqwai Hayes from Aliquippa, one of the state’s best prospects, has a more solid commitment. Additionally, three-star running back Kiandre Barker, who committed shortly after Henderson, publicly reaffirmed his commitment in June.
The NFL’s devaluation of the running back position contrasts with college football, where elite backfield players can still be game-changers. Although Henderson had potential, the resources freed up by his departure could be better allocated in the NIL era.
Penn State’s 2025 class still includes two committed running backs and elite tight ends Matt Henderson and Brady O’Hara. However, the class currently lacks depth at wide receiver, with only three-star Lyrick Samuel committed.
Prioritizing other offensive positions might prove more beneficial. With notable misses like No. 1 PA quarterback Matt Zollers (Missouri commit) and elite New Jersey wide receiver Quincy Porter (Ohio State commit), Henderson’s departure might allow Penn State to pursue other top talents.
Several four-star wide receivers who visited Happy Valley this summer remain uncommitted: Lex Cyrus, Matthew Outten, Phillip Bell, and Jeff Exinor Jr. At quarterback, while 2024 four-star Ethan Grunkemeyer appears to be the future, Penn State should also keep an eye on Maryland four-star Malik Washington, the top 2025 passer yet to commit.
Although Alvin Henderson could excel at Auburn, his de-commitment could ultimately benefit Penn State by allowing them to strengthen positions of greater need. Nittany Lions fans may find that the departure of the four-star running back from Alabama opens doors for more strategic recruiting successes.
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