SHILLINGTON, Pa. – From Shillington to the national stage, Nick Singleton is waiting to hear his name called at the NFL Draft this week.
But long before the spotlight, there were signs of what was to come.
“Him as an 8, 9-year-old doing little workouts… I remember telling him, like, ‘dude, you can relax,’” said his father, Timmy Singleton. “And he was like, ‘no, no, I’m going to finish the reps.’”
At Governor Mifflin High School, Singleton quickly became more than a hometown standout.
He became one of the most talked-about players in the state; a star with both production and presence.
For his family, the memories go beyond the highlight reels.
“There was a game that he got his helmet chipped off,” his mother, Nicole, recalled with a laugh, pointing to keepsakes that now serve as reminders of how far he’s come.
That relentless drive carried Singleton to Penn State, where expectations were high, and he still exceeded those.
In four seasons in Happy Valley, Singleton leaves as Penn State’s all-time leader in total touchdowns and all-purpose yards, cementing his place among the program’s greats.
His journey wasn’t without challenges, including injury setbacks.
But through it all, his parents say his mindset never wavered.
“I didn’t see him doubt himself… he just stayed positive,” Timmy said.
As NFL teams evaluate the player, his parents say the person behind the pads is just as impressive.
“He’s very determined, hardworking… a team player,” Nicole said.
“He tries to do what the coach is asking him to do,” Timmy added. “No matter what happens, it’s a blessing.”
Now, the next chapter will be unveiled this weekend.
From a young boy doing extra reps, to a record-breaking college career to the brink of the NFL; Singleton’s story is one of persistence, family, and belief.