Penn State loses top defender Tony Rojas to long-term injury

Penn State head coach James Franklin spent the offseason eager for the next stage of Tony Rojas’ career to begin. The junior linebacker endured a shoulder injury that limited his consistency during the Nittany Lions’ 2024 campaign and, following surgery, was poised for exciting possibilities.

“I think he’s got a chance to be special,” Franklin told BWI this summer. “With his injury, there were some games last year where he looked great and there were other games where he didn’t look to the standard I think he has for himself.

“But, he’s going to be healthy. He’s going to be a year older. He’s going to be a year more experienced. And I think he’s definitely got star power.”

Following a promising start to the 2025 season, that progress has been halted. Blue White Illustrated has learned that Rojas, the Nittany Lions’ second-leading tackler through the first four games, will be out for the foreseeable future with an unspecified, long-term injury. His return at any point this season appears unlikely in the wake of the setback.

Penn State defender makes strong impression

Rojas started all four games for Penn State this season, accumulating 25 tackles, tying for the team lead in tackles for loss (4.5) and sacks (2). He also added two quarterback hurries and one pass breakup.

During the Nittany Lions’ bye week, defensive coordinator Jim Knowles put Rojas’ early performances in context with an eye toward an even brighter future as his development continued.

“I’ve been impressed. You know, he has a high level linebacker traits in terms of his physical skills. And, you know, he’s playing a lot more physically than I saw on film in the past. And he’s learning the scheme, which can allow him to know where the ball is going to be before it gets there,” said Knowles. “So ,he can play even faster. But he’s got a real speed and playmaking ability that you look for from a linebacker at this level. So, ‘ve been pleased with what I’ve seen so far.”

Echoing the sentiment, Rojas explained his relief over the start to the season played in good health.

“It’s so much better. I’m not really thinking, leaning on one shoulder – whatever the injury was, it’s way better obviously not thinking about it. And I could just play free,” he said. “I just feel that I’m not really thinking about it and can think about making plays.”

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