Penn State’s Top 10 Players for 2026: Daryus Dixson

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The BSD staff recently voted for the top 10 Penn State players heading into 2026. The votes are dictated by how the players are expected to perform in the upcoming season, without factoring in long-term or NFL potential. Each member submitted a ballot with players ranked 1-10, with a first-place vote being 10 points. Up next, defensive backDaryus Dixson.

How He Got Here

Daryus Dixson committed to Penn State in June 2024 as a four-star cornerback from legendary Mater Dei in Santa Ana, California. He chose the Nittany Lions over SEC heavyweights such as Alabama and Georgia, as well as conference foes Oregon and Michigan. As a true freshman, Dixson played in all 13 games, starting twice, and posted 24 tackles, one sack, two forced fumbles, and six pass breakups-three of which came in the season finale against Clemson. All six of Dixson’s pass breakups and two-thirds of his tackles came in the final four games of the season, victories against Michigan State, Nebraska, Rutgers, and Clemson.

What To Expect in 2026

By its nature, preseason Top 10 lists are at least somewhat speculative and based on a player’s potential. In the case of Dixson, BSD clearly thinks he will build on his strong finish to his freshman season. He showcased both his athleticism and physicality in the last four contests, and working with both veteran and proven talent developer Terry Smith, as well as new defensive coordinator and Penn State defensive back alum D’Anton Lynn can only accelerate his growth. Dixson is expected to start at cornerback alongside seniors Audavion Collins and Zion Tracy, and even Collins agrees with BSD that the sophomore is someone to watch this season. Look for him to collect multiple interceptions and at least double his pass breakups in 2026.

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