Josiah Zayas, a 6‑foot‑2, 210‑pound athlete from Piscataway, New Jersey, has officially joined the Penn State Nittany Lions as a true freshman defensive back. His arrival adds a rare combination of size, speed, and football IQ to a defense that has been hungry for playmakers.
During his senior season at St. Thomas Aquinas, Zayas was a constant threat on both offense and defense. He caught 93 passes for 1,784 yards and 26 touchdowns while also recording 67 tackles, five tackles for loss, and nine interceptions. His junior year was equally impressive, with 41 receptions for 1,063 yards and 16 scores, plus seven picks on defense.
A Dual‑Threat Arrival
Originally pledged to Iowa State, Zayas reopened his recruitment after a late‑season push from Penn State’s coaching staff. After being released from his letter of intent, he chose the Nittany Lions, citing the program’s culture and the opportunity to contribute immediately on both sides of the ball.
Coaches have praised his versatility, noting that his ability to line up as a receiver, a defensive back, and even a special‑teams gunner gives the team tactical flexibility. “He brings a work ethic and a competitive fire that matches our standards,” said defensive coordinator Jim Jones.
The addition of Zayas is expected to bolster a secondary that has been rebuilding after a series of departures. His size and ball‑skills make him a natural fit for press coverage, while his hands and route‑running could see him used in nickel packages as a slot receiver.
Beyond the statistics, Zayas is known for his leadership in the locker room and his commitment to academic excellence. He graduated with honors from St. Thomas Aquinas and plans to major in communications at Penn State.