Penn State Faces Linebacker Shake-Up Following Departure of Potential Starter
Penn State’s linebacker room is facing a significant reshuffle following the unexpected transfer of redshirt freshman Ta’Mere Robinson, a player many projected as a breakout candidate for the 2025 season. With his exit, the Nittany Lions are left to regroup at a position already hit by turnover—and fast approaching the start of the season.
A Growing Void at Linebacker
Robinson’s decision to enter the NCAA transfer portal marks the third notable loss at linebacker for Penn State since the end of last season. Veteran Curtis Jacobs moved on to the NFL, while promising young talent Kaveion Keys transferred out of the program during the offseason. Robinson, who had been earning increased reps during spring practices, was seen as a front-runner to fill Jacobs’ vacated role, making his departure all the more impactful.
While his career at Penn State never fully took off, Robinson brought versatility and size to the unit, and his athleticism had coaches and fans excited about his potential. His exit has left head coach James Franklin and defensive coordinator Tom Allen with tough decisions to make as they sort out the linebacker depth chart.
New Faces Emerge
In the wake of these departures, the competition for playing time has intensified. Redshirt junior Keon Wylie has seen his stock rise considerably during spring camp. Known for his high motor and improved football IQ, Wylie now finds himself in a strong position to claim a starting role.
Alongside him, redshirt freshman Anthony Speca has impressed coaches with his physicality and rapid development. Speca’s ability to quickly diagnose plays and his sure tackling have earned him consistent first-team reps in practice.
True freshman Kari Jackson is another name to watch. Though he arrived on campus just months ago, the early enrollee has adapted well and could push for meaningful snaps this fall. Coaches have praised his maturity and work ethic, traits that could help fast-track his transition to Big Ten football.
Veteran Leadership Still Intact
Despite the shakeup, Penn State’s linebacker corps is not devoid of experience. Dominic DeLuca and Tony Rojas provide stability and leadership in the room.
DeLuca, a former walk-on turned team captain, made national headlines with a pick-six in the College Football Playoff win over SMU last season. His leadership and energy have made him a respected voice in the locker room and a reliable presence on the field.
Rojas, who also snagged an interception in that CFP matchup, has the range and versatility to make plays all over the field. He’s expected to take on an even larger role this season, both as a playmaker and as a mentor to younger players.
Looking Ahead
Losing a potential starter like Robinson so close to the season’s start is far from ideal, but Penn State has built enough depth and recruited well enough in recent years to weather the storm. With Wylie, Speca, and Jackson stepping up, and the steady hands of DeLuca and Rojas providing guidance, the Nittany Lions still have a chance to field a formidable linebacker unit.
Still, the pressure is on for defensive coordinator Tom Allen to blend youth and experience into a cohesive group capable of meeting the high standards set by Penn State’s storied linebacker tradition.
As the countdown to the season opener continues, all eyes will be on how the Nittany Lions adapt—and who rises to the occasion in a position group that suddenly feels wide open.
