There will not be a position group under more scrutiny than the wide receivers when Penn State takes the field for the 2024 season. There was no shortage of discussion as the Nittany Lions searched for more explosiveness in the passing game, as well as getting more receivers involved, that just never came to fruition in 2023.

Hopefully, things will be much different this year as Drew Allar is entering his second season as a starter with some new faces and more experienced options at receiver. There’s also hope surrounding new offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki’s scheme, which could find more success getting pass catchers in space to make plays. Only time will tell though.

Julian Fleming – The five-star prospect never quite lived up to his billing in Columbus, although injuries and playing alongside a slew of first-round picks limited his chances. He has one final season with the Nittany Lions, as he returns to his home state in the hopes of turning around the receiver room. He will be reliable presence with good hands and one of the strongest work ethics on the team. Don’t be surprised if he builds a quick rapport with Allar that continues into the season.

Trey Wallace – We saw flashes of his play-making ability in 2023, and it was clear that his presence made Allar much more comfortable running the offense. However, Wallace wasn’t able to stay on the field long as he battled multiple injuries throughout the season. He could easily rise to the top if he stays healthy.

Tyler Warren – Allar’s most productive and reliable returning target is a tight end who could end up on the All-American list by season’s end. Warren should have a standout season, although it’s an absolute must to have the wide receiver room get more involved for the offense to truly thrive and keep defenses on their toes.

Kaden Saunders – Saunders was a major get as a top 100 overall player in his class from Columbus, of all places. He’s shown some impressive playmaking ability in his first two seasons, but those plays have been far too few and far between. He has the ability to become a standout, perhaps even an All-Big Ten performer if he can put everything together this fall.

Omari Evans – See above. Saunders and Evans are two of the most important members of the roster this season, as a big season from one or both would have major implications on the success of the offense.

Liam Clifford – Clifford has been a reliable target who has made the most of somewhat limited opportunities during his time in Happy Valley. He should be a great fit in Kotelnicki’s offense with his ability to find soft spots in the defense, and could become a much more frequent target for Allar this fall.