Tony Rojas Looks to Bounce Back and Boost Draft Stock

Penn State’s 2026 Landscape: Change and Continuity

The 2026 campaign arrives at Penn State amid a wave of transformation, with a new coach at the helm and a roster heavy on transfer talent. Even amid the upheaval, linebacker Tony Rojas stands out as one of the few constant figures for the Nittany Lions. As the team adapts to its restructuring, Rojas’ performance will be a key measure of on‑field stability. The jersey he wears this fall will carry the weight of both personal ambition and the program’s hopes.

Rojas’ Injury History and Recovery Outlook

A torn ACL cut short Rojas’ 2025 season, but the recovery window for such injuries typically spans six months to a year. Medical experts expect him to be nearing full health just as preseason drills begin. He is slated to rejoin the squad in the next few weeks, participating in the Nittany Lions’ ramp‑up to the regular season. The timeline suggests he could be fully prepared for the first conference contests.

Statistical Impact and What We Saw in 2025

Before the ACL tear, Rojas was projecting as a dominant force, on pace to record 75 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss and eight sacks in that season. Those numbers would have cemented his reputation as a premier pass‑rush threat at the college level. Even if he falls short of those totals in 2026, approaching similar yardage will still signal a resurgence. Consistency at that level would also reinforce his status as Penn State’s most talented linebacker.

Draft Projections and expert take from Bleacher Report

Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report believes a solid 2026 campaign could elevate Rojas into a Day 2 selection for the 2027 NFL Draft. “Rojas should be able to solidify himself as a Day 2 selection with another statistically impressive campaign and by proving that he’s back to pre‑injury form,” Knox noted. A full season of play, even at a reduced statistical output, would strengthen his draft stock dramatically. The expectation is that Rojas will use the coming year to showcase the skills that made him a four‑star recruit.

Looking Ahead: Rebuilding Draft Value

Returning to the field in a few weeks gives Rojas a clear timeline to rebuild his draft value before evaluation scouts descend. Having secured his fourth season as a redshirt junior, this is likely his final year with the Nittany Lions. The combination of his previous dominance, the injury recovery, and the 2026 season’s high expectations creates a perfect stage for a breakout year. Fans and analysts will be watching closely as Rojas attempts to reclaim his spot among the top linebackers heading into the draft.