Freshman receiver Koby Howard making case for instant impact
In his time in high school, Howard showcased strong route-running with the ability to get open on almost every play. During his senior year, he averaged 14 yards-per-catch and five touchdowns while a part of Chaminade-Madonna, one of the top high school teams in the country.
Howard's high school film, plus his initial breakout during the preseason practices, has led to a lot of hype as a potential early impact player in just his freshman year. His performances in practice have caught the attention of his peers and coaches. James Franklin, wide receiver coach Marques Hagans and quarterback Drew Allar have all raved of the talent and performance from the young wide receiver in the preseason.
His constant rise has been shown in practice where he has been fourth in order for drills in the last couple of practices. But Howard's impact could enter uncharted territory in recent years with freshman receivers.
Some of the recent star Nittany Lion receivers showed signs of what was to come in their freshman year. KJ Hamler and DaeSean Hamilton turned into big-time offensive weapons after strong first seasons. Despite the strong years, they weren't necessarily the go-to target in right away. Similarly, Howard doesn't need to be the top pass catcher in his first year, especially with the numerous additions to the receiver room.
Transfers Trebor Pena, Kyron Hudson, and Devonte Ross could be the top three receivers with redshirt freshman Tyseer Denmark and veteran Liam Clifford garnering playing time as returning wideouts.
The offense will function even better if the Nittany Lions can rotate receivers in and out of the lineup, almost like a wide receiver by committee.
Howard could show the capability of being the future No. 1 receiver, similar to Hamler and Hamilton during their freshman years. The opportunity for the position will be more open in 2026, when the team gets significantly younger.
The freshman receiver will undoubtedly see playing time in the first couple of games, with matchups against Nevada, Florida International, and Villanova. But the big question will come when Big Ten play starts. Will Howard see playing time, and how much playing time will the true freshman wideout see?
If it's any significant time, Penn State may just have a No. 1 receiver in its hands for the first time in a couple of years.
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