What should Penn State fans expect from Devonte Ross in 2025?

It's no secret Penn State needed help at wide receiver, and the Nittany Lions responded by bringing in a trio of transfers with proven production. Among them, Devonte Ross arrives for his fifth season of college ball after one year at Kentucky and three at Troy, hoping to become a reliable target for quarterback DrewAllar.

Here's a look at Ross heading into the 2025 season with Penn State.

2024 in review

Ross experienced a breakout year in 2024, recording 76 catches - more than every other season combined - for over 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also served as a punt and kick returner, and could compete for one or both of those roles this fall in Happy Valley. Ross recorded multiple catches in every game with the Trojans, including an 11-catch, 229-yard, three-touchdown performance against FAMU. In his only game against power conference competition, Ross recored five grabs for 142 yards and three total touchdowns against Iowa.

Biggest question in 2025

Ross is smaller in stature, standing at just 5-foot-10 and 170 pounds. He relies on his speed and elusiveness rather than physicality, which worked well against Sun Belt defenses but may not lead to the same success against staunch Big Ten secondaries. In fairness, Ross had a great game against the Hawkeyes last season with multiple explosive plays and a punt return touchdown, but it's a small sample size.

2025 will be a success if…

This season will be a success if Ross can continue to get open through his route-running and speed. Ross was often streaking wide open across the field, providing a reliable target for big gains. Allar hasn't had many dependable targets since taking over as a starter, and Ross could prove to be his safety valve if the two can establish chemistry.

2025 will be a disappointment if…

The season will fall short of expectations if Ross fails to gain separation from defensive backs or win contested catches. He may also struggle if Allar plays conservatively and doesn't give him many deep-ball opportunities. If the two are unable to connect on explosives, it'll hurt both their numbers this season.

Realistic outlook for 2025

Ross has proven his big-play ability, including against a Big Ten defense, and he'll be working with better players around him than he had at Troy. That said, Trebor Pena is expected to be Penn State's WR1, meaning Ross may not get as many targets as he did at Troy. Realistic expectations for 2025 are 45 receptions for 600 yards and around eight touchdowns.

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This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: Devonte Ross 2025 player preview