The calendar is ticking down for Penn State’s first game of the 2026 season, a matchup against Marshall that sits just 53 days away. While the Nittany Lions gear up for that opening test, a parallel story is unfolding in the professional ranks, where one of the program’s most respected leaders is making his move to the NFL.
From College Gridiron to NFL Prospects
Nick Dawkins arrived in State College as a three‑star recruit in 2020, a designation that barely hinted at the impact he would eventually have on the offensive line. Over the next four years he worked his way from depth chart obscurity to a starting role, earning the trust of coaches and teammates alike.
His breakout came in 2024, when he helped anchor a unit that finished the season with a series of strong performances, an effort that was recognized with All‑Big Ten honorable‑mention honors. That same year he was also selected as a team captain, a testament to the respect he commanded both on and off the field.
Beyond the gridiron, Dawkins distinguished himself through community service and leadership, capturing the Wuerffel Trophy — awarded annually to the nation’s most impactful player in terms of character and service. The accolade underscored a career defined as much by personal integrity as by athletic achievement.
Now, the next chapter is taking shape in Baltimore. In 2026, Dawkins signed with the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent, joining former teammate Vega Ioane in the same locker room. The move offers a fresh platform to translate collegiate experience into professional contribution, as he fights for a spot on the 53‑man roster heading into the fall.
The excitement surrounding his transition is matched by the anticipation of Penn State fans, who will watch the season opener against Marshall with a keen eye on the legacy their former captain leaves behind. For Dawkins, the countdown is not just about a game, but about proving that the discipline, leadership and excellence he displayed in State College can translate to the NFL.