Curtis Enis: Penn State’s Powerhouse RB, All-American Star, and Big Ten Legend
Curtis Enis stands out as one of the most electrifying running backs in Penn State football history. A force to be reckoned with in the mid-1990s, Enis carved his name into college football lore with a rare combination of power, speed, and vision. His rise from a top high school recruit in Ohio to an All-American running back at Penn State and eventually a top-5 pick in the 1998 NFL Draft speaks volumes about his talent and impact on the field.
Enis joined the Penn State Nittany Lions in 1995 under legendary head coach Joe Paterno. From the beginning, it was clear he was no ordinary back. In his freshman season, he quickly found ways to contribute, showcasing flashes of the strength and explosiveness that would soon define his college career. By his sophomore year, Enis had earned the starting role, and from that point on, he dominated defenses in the Big Ten and beyond.
Over three seasons, Enis rushed for more than 2,500 yards and scored 32 touchdowns, consistently performing at a high level against some of the toughest defenses in college football. His best season came in 1997, when he rushed for 1,363 yards and 19 touchdowns, earning consensus All-American honors. That year, he was the cornerstone of Penn State’s offense, helping the team remain nationally competitive. Enis was known not only for his statistical production but also for his bruising running style. Standing 6-foot-1 and weighing around 245 pounds, he was difficult to bring down, often dragging defenders for extra yards.
His performances did not go unnoticed. Scouts and analysts praised his NFL-ready frame and punishing yet nimble running style. As draft day approached in 1998, Enis was widely regarded as one of the top prospects. The Chicago Bears, looking for a franchise running back, selected him with the 5th overall pick, hoping he would revitalize their ground game.
Unfortunately, Enis’s NFL career did not live up to the immense promise he showed in college. Knee injuries plagued him almost immediately after entering the league. Despite a few bright moments, including leading the Bears in rushing during his rookie year, injuries shortened his career to just three seasons. Still, his brief NFL tenure does not diminish his collegiate greatness.
Curtis Enis remains a legend at Penn State and a symbol of the Big Ten’s hard-nosed style of football. His name continues to resonate with fans who remember his dominance on the field and the excitement he brought to every game. Though his pro career was cut short, his impact on college football, particularly in the mid-90s, remains indelible. Today, Enis is remembered not only as a great Nittany Lion but also as one of the most talented running backs of his era.
