Interview with new Penn State kicker Alex Felkins: BWI Daily
Penn State football’s first dip into the transfer portal didn’t come at either of their most prominent and public positions. Instead of a wide receiver or a cornerback, special teams coach Stacy Collins struck first, signing Columbia kicker Alex Felkins as a preferred walk-on to the program. Felkins sits down for an exclusive interview with Blue White Illustrated’s Sean Fitz to discuss his journey to Penn State and why he chose the Nittany Lions.
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Penn State quickly worked to pick up Felkins
Penn State’s kicking situation has been inconsistent for the past two years, with punter Jordan Stout filling all three special teams kicking roles in 2021 before Jake Pinegar retook his job in 2022 and finished the regular season 12-16 on field goals and 52-54 on extra points. With Pinegar moving on and highly-rated freshman Sander Sahaydak yet to earn any playing time, the Nittany Lions pounced quickly on Felkins, a two-time All-Ivy League honoree as a kicker.
While Penn State’s need for a kicker with experience is clear, what drew Felkins to Happy Valley? The Oklahoma native shares his reasons for picking the Nittany Lions with Fitz and describes his situation at Columbia. Felkins also described what sort of atmosphere he’s looking for and how State College itself drew him to the program.
Overcoming adversity through injury
Next, the duo discussed his time at Columbia and what adversity he faced while with the Lions. He tells Fitz about a significant injury he overcame and how grueling the process of returning to play was for him. He also describes his game and what he thinks he can bring to Penn State.
The senior kicker also explains how Penn State got in contact with him, how his relationship with special team’s coach Stacy Collins has developed, and what sort of competition or playing time he’s expecting at Penn State next year.
