Penn State star freshmen duo announce return to team for 2026

Two of Penn State's emerging freshmen will be returning to the Nittany Lions for the 2026 season. Wide receiver Koby Howard and cornerback Daryus Dixson will return for their sophomore seasons in the blue and white.

Those two names were key players for Matt Campbell to retain after breaking out later in the 2025 season under interim coach Terry Smith.

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Howard logged catches in five games, with his first coming at Iowa on Oct. 18. However, his hype went back to the summer, earning the touchdown king honor during the preseason practices.

He caught just seven passes for 133 yards, and continued to see more and more action as the season progressed under Smith. He'll be in strong contention to not only start next season but be the top receiver under Campbell.

Dixson was similar to Howard, but on the defensive side. As the season progressed, the true freshman became a lockdown corner that opposing offenses struggled to find success against. He was often given the duties of facing the opposing teams top receiver, which led to more success for the defensive unit.

He totaled 24 tackles, six passes defended, one sack and two forced fumbles in his first year at Penn State. Like Howard, he'll be in prime position to be the top player at his position, likely given the opportunity to face against some of the best receivers in the nation.

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As decisions continue to be announced, Penn State has retained many key pieces, with its two young stars being the next to announce their return.

This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: Penn State star freshmen duo announce return to team for 2026