Penn State Nittany Lions are emerging as strong contenders for the 2025 national championship, leading the discussions among college football analysts. With 63% of their production returning, including quarterback Drew Allar and standout running backs Kaytron Allen and Nickolas Singleton, they have the infrastructure for success. Drew Allar's impressive stats from the previous season, completing 262-of-394 passes for 3,327 yards and 24 touchdowns, position him as a key player. Their recent loss to Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl might fuel their determination, making them a team to watch with 4th best odds for the national title.

The Cleveland Browns are already a point of interest for the 2026 NFL draft with the potential of selecting a local quarterback. Drew Allar, currently at Penn State, is highlighted as a potential top-five pick for the Browns, who hold the No. 2 overall selection. Notably, if Allar had entered the 2025 draft, he could have been the No. 2 pick, solidifying his status as a promising prospect for the upcoming draft.

Meanwhile, ESPN's Jordan Reid has a different angle, predicting that the Browns may end up with the No. 1 overall pick and choose Cade Klubnik from Clemson, whose impressive 2024 season saw him throw for over 3,600 yards and 36 touchdowns. This would come despite the Browns recently drafting two quarterbacks, hinting that the team is still seeking a long-term solution at the position amid their ongoing struggles.

Penn State's head coach James Franklin is actively looking to bolster the linebacker position ahead of the upcoming season, following some unexpected roster changes. After losing Ta'Mere Robinson to the transfer portal, along with Kobe King heading to the NFL, Franklin expressed a need for increased depth in a crucial area for the Nittany Lions. While he acknowledges the returning talent in Dominic DeLuca and Tony Rojas, Franklin indicated that the team would proactively seek additions through the NCAA transfer portal, stating, "If there is a linebacker out there that wants to be a part of our program and play for LBU, there’s an opportunity to join the room." Penn State previously acquired seven players through the portal, yet Franklin is determined to strengthen the linebacker corps to navigate the trials of a full season, especially considering the potential for injuries.

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, early projections highlight the potential for major shifts based on performances in the upcoming college football season. Key names like Drew Allar from Penn State and Garrett Nussmeier from LSU are expected to lead the charge for quarterbacks, with Allar aiming to solidify his status as a top pick after a strong season. The New Orleans Saints eye Nussmeier, leveraging family ties to bolster their quarterback situation. Notably, the New York Jets could make a historic selection with safety Caleb Downs, while the Giants focus on securing offensive linemen like Kadyn Proctor to protect their investment in Jaxson Dart.

With an eye on defense, teams like the Tennessee Titans and Carolina Panthers are expected to target dynamic edge rushers to enhance their pass rush. The draft's depth in defensive talent offers intriguing possibilities, with standout players like T.J. Parker from Clemson and Keldric Faulk from Auburn aiming to make an immediate impact. As teams prepare for the draft, evaluating the potential of these prospects in conjunction with the evolving needs of franchises will be crucial.