Tony Rojas

Tony Rojas is the returning linebacker with the highest ceiling in Penn State's 2026 defensive discussion. Penn State lists him as a redshirt junior at 6-foot-2 and 236 pounds, and his 2024 production already showed he can be more than a projection.

In 2024, Penn State credited Rojas with 16 starts, 58 tackles, six tackles for loss, one sack, three interceptions, and four pass breakups. He was an All-Big Ten honorable mention selection by the coaches and produced one of the season's signature defensive plays with a 59-yard interception return touchdown against SMU. The Big Ten's 2026 Media Day profile lists 105 tackles and four interceptions across his Penn State career.

The health context changed at Big Ten Media Day on July 28. After spring coverage focused on his knee recovery, Rojas publicly described himself as feeling "more than 100 percent" and said he felt stronger and faster. That is a meaningful first-person health signal, but it is not the same as medical clearance, guaranteed availability, or proof of an every-down role.

Rojas also described D'Anton Lynn's defense as adaptable to what players do well. If that approach carries into games, his range in run fits, underneath coverage, pressure calls, and communication could make him a central piece. The responsible projection is improved health confidence with final role and workload still subject to fall practice and game evidence.