The 2024 season marked a significant milestone for Penn State football, with head coach James Franklin leading the Nittany Lions to their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance. Although their journey ended in the semifinals, Penn State reinforced its status as a premier program. Franklin successfully retained most of his roster for another championship push in 2025, but the offseason brought notable coaching changes, including a significant departure from his staff.
Seider to South Bend
One of the most impactful changes was the exit of running backs coach Ja’Juan Seider, who took a position with Marcus Freeman’s staff at Notre Dame on February 18th, 2025. Seider played a key role in Penn State’s ability to recruit top running back talent, and his absence has created uncertainty around the commitment of 2026 four-star running back Messiah Mickens. The Harrisburg High School standout, who pledged to Penn State in August 2023, is now considering Notre Dame, with an official visit scheduled for the summer.
Despite concerns surrounding Seider’s departure, Penn State’s hiring of Stan Drayton as the new running backs coach offers stability and reassurance. Drayton brings extensive coaching experience, having worked at Texas, Ohio State, and Florida. His history of developing elite running backs at major programs strengthens Penn State’s position to retain Mickens and maintain its reputation at the position.
A coach’s value is often measured by their ability to recruit and develop talent. Drayton’s track record speaks for itself. Over the past two decades, he has consistently helped mold running backs into standout college players and NFL prospects.
At Ohio State (2011-2014), Drayton played a crucial role in recruiting and developing Ezekiel Elliott, who became one of college football’s top backs before being drafted in the first round of the NFL Draft. Elliott’s performance during Ohio State’s 2014 national championship run demonstrated Drayton’s ability to prepare players for the highest level of competition.
During his tenure at Texas (2017-2021), Drayton coached Bijan Robinson, a standout back who went on to become a first-round selection in the 2023 NFL Draft. His ability to refine talent and prepare players for professional success makes him a strong asset for a recruit like Mickens.
Although Seider had a well-established connection with Mickens, Drayton provides something even more valuable—proven success across multiple powerhouse programs. Mickens, who has aspirations of reaching the NFL, would benefit greatly from Drayton’s experience in developing top-tier talent.
Beyond Drayton’s impressive resume, Penn State has built a strong reputation for developing elite running backs, particularly those from Pennsylvania. The Nittany Lions have created a consistent pipeline of standout backs, proving that homegrown talent flourishes in Happy Valley.
The program’s history includes Saquon Barkley, who became one of college football’s most explosive playmakers before being selected No. 2 overall in the 2018 NFL Draft. Miles Sanders followed in his footsteps, excelling in Penn State’s system before entering the NFL as a second-round pick. Although Journey Brown’s career was unfortunately cut short due to medical concerns, his talent and potential were undeniable.
This tradition continues with Nicholas Singleton, who made an immediate impact as a freshman and is considered one of the top running backs in the country. Additionally, Quinton Martin, another highly touted recruit, is expected to play a significant role in the coming years. Given this legacy of successful running backs, Mickens has a clear path to follow should he remain committed to Penn State.
Keeping Mickens in the 2026 class is a top priority for Penn State. The Nittany Lions started the recruiting cycle strong, but recent losses, such as three-star wide receiver Jerquaden Guilford, have slowed momentum. The 2026 class currently ranks eighth in the nation, but losing Mickens would be a significant setback.
Even with a deep running back room that includes Singleton, Kaytron Allen, Quinton Martin Jr., Corey Smith, and 2025 commits Tikey Hayes and Jabree Wallace-Coleman, Mickens is a special talent. Holding onto his commitment would reaffirm Penn State’s position as a prime destination for elite running backs and provide long-term depth at the position.
Why Mickens Should Stay Committed to Penn State
Mickens has several reasons to remain committed to Penn State. The Nittany Lions prioritize the running game, creating an ideal system for running backs to thrive. The recent success of Singleton and Allen highlights the opportunities available to high-caliber backs in Franklin’s offense.
Additionally, Mickens would be learning from one of the most accomplished running backs coaches in college football. While Seider played a major role in his recruitment, Mickens must consider his long-term goals. Drayton’s expertise in developing NFL-ready running backs makes Penn State an attractive destination for a player with professional aspirations.
Beyond football, Penn State offers top-tier facilities, passionate fan support, and a program consistently in the national spotlight. With the Nittany Lions recently making their first College Football Playoff appearance, the program is on the verge of breaking through as a championship contender. Mickens has the chance to be part of something special, and with Drayton guiding his development, he could be the next in a long line of elite Penn State running backs.
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