Carrying the Linebacker U Torch: How Tony Rojas Is Following in the Footsteps of Penn State Legends
Penn State has long been hailed as “Linebacker U,” a title earned through decades of elite play at the linebacker position. From legends like Jack Ham and Shane Conlan to more recent stars such as Paul Posluszny, Sean Lee, and Micah Parsons, the program has consistently developed some of the best defenders in college football—and the NFL. Now, sophomore Tony Rojas is poised to be the next name in that storied lineage.
Rojas arrived in Happy Valley as a highly touted four-star recruit, praised for his versatility, athleticism, and football IQ. After an impressive freshman campaign where he contributed on special teams and flashed his potential on defense, Rojas is now set to take on a much larger role in Penn State’s 2025 defense. With his sideline-to-sideline speed and aggressive instincts, Rojas has drawn early comparisons to the very players who built the program’s linebacker legacy.
What sets Rojas apart is his relentless work ethic and desire to improve. Coaches have lauded his dedication in the weight room and his grasp of the defensive playbook. He’s not just aiming to be another good linebacker at Penn State—he wants to be one of the greats.
The expectations are high, but so is Rojas’s ceiling. As he steps into a leadership role this season, all eyes will be on him to uphold the standard of excellence that defines Linebacker U. If his trajectory continues upward, Tony Rojas could very well etch his name alongside the greats who’ve worn the blue and white before him—solidifying his place in Penn State h
istory.
