Previewing the 2025 season for Penn State center Nick Dawkins with his player profile
Going into the 2025 football season, Nittany Lions Wire will examine each player listed on the Penn State roster. Over the preseason, each profile will cover the player's background, how recruiting websites rated them coming out of high school, and what role they will play for James Franklin this season.
Entering his sixth year, center Nick Dawkins has grown into a vocal presence in the offense. The son of NBA legend Darryl Dawkins, he's earned the respect of teammates and coaches for his leadership and consistency. Here's a deep dive into Dawkins as he prepares for his last ride in Happy Valley.
Preseason Player Profile
Hometown: Allentown, Pennsylvania
Height: 6-4
Weight: 297 lb
Class in 2025: Redshirt senior
Recruiting Rankings
Class of 2020: Consensus 3-star recruit, No. 57 guard per 247Sports
Dawkins received offers from Tennessee, Louisville, Pitt and others, but opted to head to Happy Valley with a commitment in April 2019.
Depth Chart Overview
Dawkins solidified his role as Penn State's starting center in 2024, starting all 16 games while earning All-Big Ten honorable mention honors. With his rare sixth year of eligibility, Dawkins returns as a leader of the offensive line, anchoring a unit that must replace guard Sal Wormley. The Nittany Lions have plenty of depth on the line, but it's unlikely Dawkins gets usurped in the starting rotation.
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