Tony Rojas spent last season watching from the sidelines as Penn State endured a tough six-game losing streak, which dashed their national championship hopes and led to the departure of coach James Franklin. Rojas, a promising linebacker, was sidelined due to an injury he sustained in practice at the end of September.
As the Matt Campbell era kicks off for the Nittany Lions, Rojas is eager to return to the field for the 2026 season opener against Marshall on September 5.
"I'm on track right now, ahead of track," Rojas shared at Beaver Stadium. "The most important thing is I'll be full go all summer. When spring ball comes, we'll see what I can do, but I'll be ready."
Rojas' injury woes began with a quad contusion during a loss to Oregon. Despite feeling the effects, he pushed through practice, only to suffer a more severe injury to the same leg. His season was abruptly ended.
Four days later, Penn State's defense struggled against UCLA, marking the start of their downward spiral.
"It was tough, honestly," Rojas admitted. "That was probably the hardest mental break I've ever had, just watching everything unfold.
But I had support, and it taught me a lot. I learned to help the younger guys and keep a positive spirit."
Now a redshirt junior with two seasons of eligibility left, Rojas had a strong start last season with 25 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, and one pass defense in just four games. Over his college career, he's amassed 105 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, three sacks, a forced fumble, five pass breakups, and four interceptions.
A four-star recruit from Fairfax, Virginia, Rojas was living up to his potential before his season was cut short. He watched as Penn State rallied from a 3-6 record to finish 7-6, capping the season with a Pinstripe Bowl victory.
"I felt it was both a blessing and a curse," Rojas reflected. "I believe everything happens for a reason.
It was tough, but I'm looking forward now. Despite the losses and Coach Franklin's departure, I think we'll come back stronger than people expect."
Rojas is focused on his recovery, spending significant time in rehab and leaning on his support system.
"It's been challenging, but my mindset is strong," Rojas said. "I'm attacking rehab and feeling positive. These challenges build character."
He's drawn inspiration from former Penn State safety KJ Winston, who also battled back from injury.
"He's shared his mindset with me, and I'm starting to feel even better than before," Rojas said. "Having people who've been through it is invaluable."
The Penn State linebacker room has seen significant changes. With players like Amare Campbell now at Tennessee and LaVar Arrington II transitioning to edge rusher, Rojas will be part of a refreshed unit that includes transfers and returning players.
Expectations are high for Rojas' return, and he's motivated to make a significant impact.
"I'm self-motivated," Rojas stated. "I don't need external motivation. The beginning was tough with self-doubt, but I've regained my confidence."