It’s been a bumpy road for Penn State defensive lineman Zuriah Fisher to reach the 2025 season, but the grounds have begun to flatten and open the gates for an exciting final season.
Fisher missed all of 2024 with a significant injury and made his season debut against FIU Saturday.
It’s the second significant injury Fisher has suffered in his career.
“It’s been mentally and physically draining,” Fisher said. “I was able to get through everything I’ve been through, so I’m happy to be here.”
The Pittsburgh native from local powerhouse Aliquippa enrolled at Penn State prior to the 2020 season. 2023 was a breakout campaign for Fisher, recording 3.5 sacks, 3.5 tackles for loss, and recovering a fumble in 13 games. He had played in 11 games the previous three years.
Fisher missed the season opener against Nevada.
“The first time I came back from injury, it was easier to come back from it, but harder to go through it,” Fisher said. “The second time, it was easier to go through it, but harder to come back from it.
Add Nittany Sports Now as a preferred source in Google! Click here to add us.Fisher pointed to his mother’s battle with diabetes as a determining factor for him to keep going and fighting in his recovery process.
“The reason why I didn’t stop is because of my mom,” Fisher said. “She was kind of sick her whole life. I’ve seen her battle through a lot of things. I was thinking I’ve never seen my mom quit. Why would I quit?”
Fisher has a strong relationship with his mother and considers himself “a momma’s boy.”
“My mom’s very important to me,” Fisher said. “I was a mamma’s boy. I saw her battle through a lot of things. That helped me out to get through football.”
Not everyone’s journey is the same. We all take different twists and turns life throws our way. Fisher has been through significant injuries, but his passion and dedication for the game have pushed him to return to the starting lineup during a season full of promise and desire for Penn State.
“I love football so much,” Fisher said. “I don’t want to just give it up.”
