Penn State Football Injury Update: Kaden Saunders Back at Practice

WR “Hopeful” to Play Week 1, Says James Franklin

Penn State football wide receiver Kaden Saunders is back at practice and “hopeful” to play in the season opener against Purdue on September 1, head coach James Franklin said on Monday.

Saunders, a 6-foot, 203-pound redshirt sophomore, missed the end of spring practice and most of preseason camp with an undisclosed injury.

Franklin said Saunders still has some conditioning to do, but he is expected to be a full participant in practice this week.

What Saunders’ Return Means for Penn State’s Offense

Saunders’ return is a big boost for Penn State’s offense, which is already deep at the wide receiver position.

Saunders had 22 catches for 305 yards and two touchdowns in 2021.

He is expected to be a major contributor in the passing game this season, along with fellow wide receivers Parker Washington, Jahan Dotson, and KeAndre Lambert-Smith.

Franklin on Saunders’ Status

Franklin said Saunders is “day-to-day” and that his status for the Purdue game will be determined later this week.

“He’s still got to get in football shape,” Franklin said. “But he’s moving around well. He’s catching the ball well. He’s running routes well. So we’re excited to have him back.”

Saunders’ Comments

Saunders said he is “feeling good” and that he is “hopeful” to play in the season opener.

“I’m just trying to get back into the swing of things and get my conditioning back,” Saunders said. “I’m excited to be back out there with my teammates.”