The 2026 Penn State football season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with a roster that's been completely revitalized under new head coach Matt Campbell. After a whirlwind offseason filled with transfer portal activity, fans will have plenty of new names to learn—but some familiar faces will anchor the team. One such player is cornerback Audavion Collins, a seasoned veteran who's poised to be a key figure in the Nittany Lions' defensive backfield this fall.

Collins, a redshirt senior, originally committed to Mississippi State as a consensus 3-star recruit and the No. 63 ranked cornerback in the Class of 2022. After a quiet freshman season where he didn't see the field, he transferred to Penn State and has steadily grown into a reliable playmaker. His numbers have improved each year, culminating in a standout 2025 campaign where he earned All-Big Ten honorable mention honors. Over his college career, Collins has racked up 76 total tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, four passes defensed, and an interception—a testament to his hard work and consistency.

As one of the most experienced members of the secondary, Collins figures to be a mainstay in the cornerback rotation. While a new coaching staff means no role is guaranteed, his track record suggests he'll be a name fans hear often on Saturdays. Whether it's locking down receivers or making key stops, Collins brings a veteran presence that will be invaluable to a team navigating a fresh start. Keep an eye on him as the Nittany Lions aim to make noise in 2026—he's a player who could define the defense's success.