One of Penn State’s defensive leaders has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Defensive tackle Zane Durant announced Monday evening on social media that he will opt out of the Pinstripe Bowl and declare for the NFL draft. Durant is the first Nittany Lion to announce his bowl decision.
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Durant is one of the most experienced players on the team with 40 career starts across four seasons. He will finish his career with 89 total tackles, 22 tackles for loss, 10 sacks and one interception. He’ll look to be the latest Penn State defensive lineman drafted to the NFL, with nine Nittany Lions selected since 2020.
The senior personally thanked several of his current and former coaches, including former head coach James Franklin, interim head coach Terry Smith, former defensive coordinators Manny Diaz and Tom Allen, co-defensive coordinator and safeties coach Anthony Poindexter, defensive line coach Deion Barnes, and former defensive line coach John Scott Jr.
Penn State will face Clemson in the Pinstripe Bowl on Saturday, Dec. 27.
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This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: Penn State DT Zane Durant opts out, declares for 2026 NFL draft
