Nick Singleton’s path to Penn State began with an intriguing encounter at a high school football event. Former Penn State quarterback Beau Pribula, then uncommitted like Singleton, made an impassioned pitch to recruit him. “I want you to be my running back,” Pribula told Singleton, a sentiment that left a lasting impression on the talented athlete.
Although the pair eventually committed to Penn State as part of the 2022 recruiting class, Singleton’s journey wasn’t straightforward. At one point, he seemed destined to join Notre Dame. Singleton reflected on his visit there, noting how positive the experience was, particularly the welcoming atmosphere created by the coaches and team members. He was prepared to commit to Notre Dame after visiting Wisconsin and Penn State, with plans to visit Texas A&M and Alabama as well. However, he decided to delay his commitment to Notre Dame to complete his remaining visits. After his final visit to Alabama on June 25, 2021, Singleton announced his commitment to Penn State on July 6.
Singleton explained that his decision came down to the environment at Penn State. From the moment he visited, the program treated him and his family like their own. Additionally, Penn State’s strong tradition of producing top-tier running backs, its proximity to his home in Pennsylvania, and the pride he felt as a local athlete solidified his choice.
A native of Reading, Pennsylvania, Singleton emerged as a standout talent at Governor Mifflin High School. As the Pennsylvania Gatorade Player of the Year and a 5-star recruit, he was ranked the No. 31 player nationally, the No. 1 running back in the country, and the top player in Pennsylvania. Securing Singleton’s commitment was a significant victory for Penn State head coach James Franklin and his staff, especially given the fierce competition from Notre Dame and Alabama.
Former Penn State linebacker Jan Johnson played a pivotal role in Singleton’s recruitment. Johnson, also a Governor Mifflin alumnus, leveraged his connection to Singleton through a shared weightlifting program called “Garage Strength” in their hometown. Johnson’s influence, along with that of trainer Dane Miller, helped Penn State regain momentum in recruiting Singleton after nearly losing him during his visits.
Franklin acknowledged that Penn State wasn’t initially certain what position Singleton would play when they began recruiting him in 2019, considering him as a potential cornerback. However, as Singleton’s skills developed, it became clear that he was a special talent. Franklin fondly recalled an at-home visit with Singleton’s family, where the running back’s mother served oxtail, further cementing their bond. Singleton’s academic success, community involvement, and strong family ties have made him an exemplary representative of Penn State.
Since arriving on campus, Singleton has thrived both on and off the field. He and fellow running back Kaytron Allen quickly established themselves as co-starters during their freshman year, forming a dominant duo. Their on-field chemistry is mirrored off the field, as the two are roommates and close friends. The partnership has allowed both players to share the workload, minimizing physical toll while maximizing performance. Singleton emphasized how this dynamic benefits the team, with both backs exchanging insights and supporting each other during games.
As Penn State prepares for its first-round College Football Playoff matchup against SMU, Singleton remains focused on the season. He has yet to decide whether he will return for his senior year or declare for the NFL Draft. Franklin expressed his support for Singleton, noting that Penn State would work hard to secure him a high draft position if he chooses to go pro. For now, Singleton is intent on helping his team compete for a national championship and beating Notre Dame, the program he once considered joining.
Singleton stated, “I haven’t made a decision yet. I’m still worried about finishing this season off the right way. We have a chance to do something that we haven’t done in a while.”