The Penn State football roster that shined in the College Football Playoff semifinals and produced the most wins in school history will return a serious core of contributors. Foundationally, the Nittany Lions appear in about as good of shape as possible heading into preparations for a 2025 season with even greater expectations.

A week following the end of Penn State football’s season, and early 2025 expectations are on the up-and-up. The Nittany Lions are likely to return four of five starting linemen, bring back both thousand yard rushers and keep a number of key defensive players.

The Penn State Nittany Lions bring back four captains from their 2025 roster, including former walk-on Dom DeLuca.

Following the announcement of several key returns for 2025, a trio of Penn State Linemen have also announced their intention to return for another season. Starting center Nick Dawkins and guard JB Nelson will both be back in the fall.