It’s that time of year, Vikings fans! We’re headed into the divisional round of the NFL playoffs, which usually means the Vikings’ season is over. The good thing is, however, that this means we can begin taking deep dives into 2026 NFL Draft prospects!
This series will provide you with a consolidated report on prospects and how they could contribute to the Vikings. If you don’t have all the time in the world to watch film and research these potential future NFL contributors, this series is perfect for you.
Today, we kick things off with a running back that the Vikings have been tied to ever since last year, when Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah attended Minnesota vs. Penn State in late 2024. It’s understandable, as the Vikings were considered likely to potentially draft a back in the 2025 NFL Draft. This obviously didn’t happen.
Penn State RB Nicholas Singleton
Nicholas Singleton stands at 6’0′ tall and weighs 224 lbs. This size makes his 4.39-second 40-yard dash rather impressive. Singelton has an exceptional burst at the line, along with quick footwork and the patience of a saint if the run needs to develop in front of him.
Once through the line, Singleton possesses an outstanding contact balance when tackles are attempted upon him. Accompanied by these great traits are soft hands and a good-enough route-running ability, forcing opposing defenses into mismatches with their linebackers. Making it even better are his pass-protection instincts and a willingness to stand up extra rushers on the blitz. He also provides value as a special teamer, averaging 24 yards-per-return in his college career.
Also consider this take from The Athletic‘s Bruce Feldman, who produces the “Feldman’s Freaks” list every August. This was a list that Nicholas Singelton made in 2025.
“The guy who holds the school’s all-time rushing TD mark is Saquon Barkley, who had 43 in three seasons. Barkley, No. 1 on the 2017 Freaks List, ran a 4.33 40, power cleaned 405 pounds and bench pressed 405. Singleton is close to those numbers and better in the bench press, doing 435. He improved his power clean to 395. His 40 is 4.35. His shuttle time is 4.18. His max velocity is 23.5 mph. He broke Barkley’s running back record in the squat last year, doing 665. He did 660 this offseason. Singleton’s broad jump also went up four inches to 10-5.”
Nicholas Singleton and the Minnesota Vikings Marriage
Nicholas Singelton’s production did take a bit of a dip in 2025, but his true production-potential never reached its maximum. Singelton has shared a backfield with Kaytron Allen throughout his entire time at Penn State.
Still, the kid has more than proven he can produce at a high-level in the professional game. Singleton could bring true RB1 potential to the Vikings in the 2026 NFL Draft, something they will probably be in the market for in April unless they decide to keep the tandem of Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason together, or go the route of free agency to fill the void. Singleton is likely to be had on Day 2 of the draft.
He could bring a dynamic to the Vikings’ offense that is similar to Aaron Jones, though the ceiling would be even higher. His ability to contribute efficiently in rushing, pass-protection, and the receiving game could make him a true first-option in Minnesota.
#Penn #State #Nicholas #Singleton
