Penn State Linebacker Tony Rojas Out with Long-Term Injury

Penn State starting linebacker Tony Rojas will miss a significant portion of the 2025 season due to a long-term injury sustained during practice. Rojas, a junior from Fairfax, Virginia, has been a key player for the Nittany Lions, ranking second on the team with 25 tackles, tied for first with 4.5 tackles for loss, and tied for first with two sacks through the first four games of the season. His absence is expected to have a considerable impact on the team's defensive strategy, particularly given the existing concerns about linebacker depth.

ESPN

Rojas had a promising start to the season, showcasing his skills after recovering from a shoulder injury that plagued him during his sophomore year. He played a crucial role in Penn State's defense, contributing significantly in their games against Nevada and Villanova. Rojas's performance earned him a spot on the 2025 Hispanic College Football Player of the Year Award Watch List, highlighting his potential and importance to the team.

247Sports

Head coach James Franklin confirmed Rojas's injury during a media session, indicating that his return this season appears unlikely. Franklin noted, "Obviously, Dom (DeLuca) will step into that role... and we’re having discussions about greenlighting possibly both (Alex) Tatsch and Cam (Smith)." This statement underscores the urgency for the coaching staff to adapt quickly to Rojas's absence, as they prepare for upcoming games against UCLA and Northwestern.

Centre Daily Times

In Rojas's absence, senior Dominic DeLuca is expected to take on a starting role alongside junior Amare Campbell. DeLuca has experience, having played in 15 games last season, but the depth behind him is limited. Other linebackers such as Keon Wylie, Anthony Speca, and true freshmen Alex Tatsch and Cam Smith may also see increased playing time. The coaching staff is considering burning the redshirts of Tatsch and Smith to bolster the linebacker corps.

Penn State defensive star out with long-term injury

The loss of Rojas has raised concerns among analysts and fans regarding the team's linebacker depth. Critics point out that replacing a player of Rojas's caliber will not be easy, especially as the Nittany Lions face tougher opponents in the coming weeks. The defensive unit's ability to adapt will be tested, particularly against teams with strong offensive capabilities.

Penn State defensive star out with long-term injury

The Nittany Lions will face UCLA this Saturday, followed by a matchup against Northwestern. These games will be critical for Penn State as they seek to maintain their competitive edge in the Big Ten, especially with the absence of Rojas. The coaching staff will need to implement effective strategies to compensate for his loss while ensuring that the remaining linebackers are prepared for the challenges ahead.

ESPN

• “Obviously Dom will will step into that role and then obviously, you know, we’re having the discussions about green lighting possibly both Tash (Alex Tatsch) and and Cam (Smith),” — James Franklin, Head Coach, Penn State

Norristown Times-Herald

• “To be frank, replacing Rojas won’t be easy.” — Analyst Comment on Penn State's Linebacker Depth

Report: Tony Rojas Out With “Long-Term” Injury

This situation highlights the challenges faced by college football teams in managing injuries and maintaining performance levels throughout the season.

ESPN