Penn State’s football program has long been defined by its linebacker tradition, a unit famously labeled ‘Linebacker U.’ The 2026 season brings a pivotal reshaping of that identity, as the Nittany Lions navigate a massive roster turnover following the 2025 campaign.
Returning Leadership
Veteran Tony Rojas will return to Happy Valley after recovering from an ACL tear, bringing a breakout 2024 performance that included 58 tackles, a sack, three interceptions and a touchdown. Coaches expect Rojas to anchor the defense as the No. 1 linebacker and to provide versatility across multiple schemes.
Adding to the mix are transfers Caleb Bacon and Kooper Ebel from Iowa State. Bacon logged 68 tackles, three sacks and three pass deflections in 2025, while Ebel led the team with 77 tackles and also contributed a sack and three deflections. Both are expected to make immediate impacts on the field.
Emerging Talent
Youngsters such as Alex Tatsch and Cael Brezina will see expanded roles, with Tatsch building on a 2025 contribution and Brezina arriving from Iowa State after a 29‑tackle stint. Redshirt freshman Cam Smith has added 25 pounds and is poised to compete, while Chris Fileppo, a transfer from West Virginia, is slated to sit third in the middle linebacker hierarchy. John Klosterman, a redshirt senior also from Iowa State, may see limited snaps but remains part of the depth chart.
Coach Tyson Veidt emphasizes experience and leadership, noting that the blend of seasoned returnees and high‑impact newcomers positions the unit to maintain the program’s storied defensive standards. The optimism surrounding the room reflects a belief that the Nittany Lions can sustain their reputation as a breeding ground for elite linebackers.