Kevin Winston Jr. is a dynamic safety who played for the Penn State Nittany Lions before entering the 2025 NFL Draft. Standing 6'2" and weighing 208 pounds, Winston hails from Columbia, Maryland, and played at DeMatha Catholic High School. In the 2024 season, he earned Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week honors after recording a career-high 12 tackles, forcing a fumble, and adding a tackle for loss in the season opener against West Virginia . He was also named to the Chuck Bednarik Award Watch List, which recognizes the nation's top defensive player . Throughout his collegiate career, Winston accumulated 259 tackles, 23 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, 11 pass breakups, and four quarterback hurries over 59 games, starting 30 . In his senior season, he led the team with 112 tackles and earned first-team All-Big Ten honors. He was also named the defensive MVP in both the Rose Bowl and the College Football Playoff National Championship Game.
Following his successful college career, Winston was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the fourth round (107th overall) of the 2025 NFL Draft. Scouting reports highlight his leadership, strong diagnostic skills, and competitive nature, making him a valuable asset on special teams and as a two-down linebacker. While his athleticism and coverage skills may be areas for development, Winston's experience and football IQ make him a valuable asset to the team.
