Penn State Linebacker Poised for Stardom, Says Coach

Matt Campbell believes Tony Rojas could become one of the all-time great players at 'Linebacker U'.

Feb. 7, 2026 at 2:55am

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Despite Penn State's reputation as 'Linebacker U', the team struggled with depth at the position over the past two seasons, especially when star linebacker Tony Rojas sustained a season-ending injury early in 2025. However, Iowa State head coach Matt Campbell believes Rojas has the potential to become one of the greatest linebackers in Penn State history.

Why it matters

Penn State is known for producing elite linebackers, so Campbell's high praise for Rojas suggests the young player could continue that tradition and help the Nittany Lions return to national prominence on defense.

The details

Rojas, a rising sophomore, was limited by injury last season, but Campbell believes the young linebacker has all the tools to become a dominant force for Penn State in the coming years.

  • Rojas sustained a season-ending injury early in the 2025 season.

The players

Tony Rojas

A rising sophomore linebacker at Penn State who was limited by injury last season but is expected to become a star for the Nittany Lions.

Matt Campbell

The head coach of the Iowa State Cyclones, who believes Rojas has the potential to become one of the all-time great linebackers at Penn State.

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What they’re saying

“I think Tatsch has a chance to be one of the great linebackers of all time here”

— Matt Campbell, Head Coach, Iowa State Cyclones

The takeaway

Penn State's reputation as 'Linebacker U' could be bolstered by the emergence of Tony Rojas, who has the potential to become an all-time great player for the Nittany Lions according to a respected opposing coach.