While Penn State has long been known for producing elite linebackers, with 72 selected in the NFL Draft, the most in the draft era, the premier defensive position in Happy Valley has shifted in recent years.
That position is now EDGE rusher.
The transition began most notably with Micah Parsons, who moved from linebacker to defensive end during the Cotton Bowl Classic following the 2019 season. Parsons delivered a dominant performance, recording 14 tackles, two sacks, and two forced fumbles, earning Defensive MVP honors in a 53-39 win over Memphis.
Since Parsons’ transition, Penn State has continued to develop elite EDGE defenders. Chop Robinson and Abdul Carter both became first-round NFL Draft selections, with Carter emerging as the top defensive player taken in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Former Penn State pass rusher Odafe Oweh recently signed a $100 million contract with the Washington Commanders, including $68 million guaranteed, further highlighting the value of Penn State-developed EDGE players at the professional level.
Now another familiar name is making the move.
Add Nittany Sports Now as a preferred source in Google! Click here to add us.LaVar Arrington II will shift from linebacker to defensive end entering his sophomore season. The move could help the 6-foot-3, 220-pound defender see the field sooner on defense.
Arrington, the son of legendary Penn State linebacker LaVar Arrington, burned his redshirt last season after appearing in seven games on special teams.
A four-star linebacker prospect from Charter Oak High School in California, Arrington arrives with strong pedigree. His father starred at Penn State from 1997–1999, earning unanimous All-American honors in 1999 while capturing both the Butkus Award and the Bednarik Award.
The younger Arrington will help bolster a thin and relatively unproven defensive end group that includes sophomore Yvan Kemajou, redshirt freshman Max Granville, and transfers Alexander McPherson and Ike Ezeogu.
