Penn State Linebacker Tony Rojas Out Indefinitely Due to Injury

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — Penn State linebacker Tony Rojas will miss a significant amount of time after suffering a long-term injury during practice Tuesday night. The injury news was reported Wednesday by multiple sources, including Blue-White Illustrated.

Rojas, a junior from Fairfax, Virginia, is a key player for the Nittany Lions. He has started all four games this season and ranks second on the team with 25 tackles, including 4.5 for loss. He also has two sacks and one pass breakup. Coach James Franklin confirmed Rojas’s absence during a press conference, stating that it represents a major blow to the team’s defensive lineup.

In Rojas’s absence, Franklin mentioned that senior linebacker Amare Campbell will take on a more prominent role. Along with Campbell, redshirt senior Dominic DeLuca and several freshmen, including Alex Tatsch, are expected to fill the gap left by Rojas. “We’re having discussions about possibly letting both Tatsch and Cam get some opportunities,” Franklin said.

Rojas had previously battled injuries, playing much of last season with a shoulder issue before having surgery following the team’s College Football Playoff run. He is a vital part of Penn State’s defensive scheme, having earned an All-Big Ten honorable mention last season. Rojas finished the 2024 season with 58 tackles, three interceptions, and a defensive touchdown.

His injury adds pressure to the Nittany Lions, currently ranked seventh in the nation, as they prepare for an upcoming game against an undefeated opponent. According to reports, Rojas was seen emotional after a recent loss, highlighting his commitment to the team. “The sooner that Tony can get involved in helping prepare those guys, the better we’ll be,” Franklin added regarding Rojas’s role despite his injury.

This season, Rojas had opened with strong performances, including ten tackles against his latest opponent. As he begins a long recovery process, the Penn State coaching staff now faces the challenge of restructuring their linebacker core.