It remains up in the air as to whether or not Kaden Saunders will be available for Penn State football’s season opener at West Virginia.
During his Monday press conference, Penn State coach James Franklin said that Saunders is working his way back from some “bumps and bruises.”
In terms of whether Saunders will be able to go Saturday, Franklin said that “he’s missed some time, so we’re working through that right now and obviously we’re hopeful that he’ll be able to go this week and be full go and be able to factor back in for us.”
Saunders entered training camp as one of a number of players competing for a starting wide receiver spot.
Penn State Nittany Lions wide receiver Kaden Saunders (7) November 12, 2022 David Hague/NSN
The former 2022 4-star recruit and Top 100 prospect hasn’t yet had an huge impact in the Penn State offense. In his first two seasons, Saunders has registered just 8 receptions for 77 yards and a touchdown. But Saunders’ speed and quickness are likely to be highlighted in Penn State’s offense under new coordinator Andy Kotelnicki.
If Saunders is can’t go Week 1, Franklin did mention that guys such as Tyler Johnson, Mehki Flowers and Anthony Ivey “have really stepped up for us.” Franklin was also complimentary of receiver Julian Fleming, who transferred in this off-season from Ohio State.
Aside from the wide receiver depth chart, the potential absence of Saunders for the West Virginia game would be felt most on special teams.
Saunders is set to be Penn State’s top punt returner after sharing the duties last season with Daequan Hardy. In 2023, Saunders returned 13 punts for 88 yards.
