Penn State Football’s reputation as “Linebacker U” might have been fortified, earlier this summer.

The Nittany Lions won a major recruiting battle, earning the commitment from four-star linebacker Tony Rojas, over some of College Football’s powerhouse programs in early July.

Why Tony Rojas is considered one of the best defenders in the 2023 class, and a major get for Penn State Football:

Position: Linebacker

Hometown: Fairfax, Virginia

School: Fairfax High School

Height: 6’2”

Weight: 200lbs

Offers: Georgia, Clemson, Notre Dame

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Freakish Athleticism

Verified 4.4 speed with a shuttle in 4.2s, this showcases his elite speed line change of direction skills.

Rojas is a bouncy athlete who overwhelms high school players with his physical gifts. He has the ability to chase a play sideline to sideline.

You won’t see a ball carrier beat Rojas around the edge. I wouldn’t be surprised if he eventually winds up on Bruce Feldman’s annual “Freak List.”

Pass rush ability

Rojas lines up at defensive end a lot for Fairfax. He showcases next level bend and dip around the edge. His closing speed is utterly ridiculous. Manny Diaz loves to blitz, and Rojas will excel at it in college.

Tony Rojas fits the bill of the modern-day NFL linebacker. He has a chance to become the star of LinebackerU.

NFL Comparison:

Jerome Baker – Miami Dolphins

Baker was a stud at Ohio State and is currently tearing it up in the NFL. He isn’t the biggest guy in the world (6’2”, 225lbs), but his athleticism and toughness make him a defensive centerpiece in South Beach.

Once Rojas fills out his frame and develops under Manny Diaz’s tutelage, I believe his game will resemble Baker’s in a big way.

 

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