By BRIAN SCHULTZ
Since the Penn Kingsmen finished their 2025 football season with an astounding 11-1 record, starting center A.J. Needham has been hard at work during the offseason. A 6-foot-5, 294-pound Center, Needham has dedicated himself to improving his craft and footwork on and off the field.
Going into his senior year, Needham is ready to step into the role of a senior leader and captain after being a starter his sophomore and junior years.
“I understand the responsibility that comes with being a senior on this team,” Needham said. “Leadership is critical to a team’s success, and I am committed to setting the standard through urgency, accountability, and consistency. When seniors lead the right way, it sets the tone and creates a culture the entire team follows.”
Being a senior leader on the Penn Kingsmen football team is a tough and responsible task, and Needham is more than ready to take it on.
His work throughout his career has not gone unnoticed, as Needham has had the opportunity to connect with multiple high-profile Division 1 football programs. Some of these include: the University of Notre Dame, Western Michigan University and Western Kentucky University.
Needham mentioned that the recruiting process has been a blessing for him, and he has had the chance to get on many campuses for visits.
“Being able to learn directly from them, hearing what I’m doing well and what I can improve on has helped me immensely prepare myself for the upcoming season,” Needham said.
With his senior season coming in fast, Needham has very high expectations for this upcoming 2026 football season, looking forward to leading his team to many victories once again. His senior year is a big deal to him because it is his final opportunity to play and compete alongside his teammates, whom he considers “brothers,” making it especially meaningful for Needham.
“I cannot wait to see what this season has in store for our team,” Needham said. “I want to shoot for state this year as I think we have the pieces and playmakers on our team to make it happen.”
