Press Release: Penn State Bolsters Linebacker Depth with Amare Campbell Transfer
STATE COLLEGE, PA – Penn State football has made a strategic addition to its linebacker corps, securing the services of former North Carolina standout Amare Campbell. The 6-foot, 230-pound linebacker is fresh off a solid 2024 season, where he ranked second on the Tar Heels with 76 tackles, including 10.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. The news was confirmed by ESPN’s Pete Thamel on Tuesday night.
Campbell, who has two years of eligibility remaining, visited the Penn State campus earlier this month, signaling his commitment to joining the program. His addition comes at a crucial time for the Nittany Lions, who recently experienced a setback with the transfer of linebacker Ta’Mere Robinson to USC.
Veterans Dom DeLuca and Tony Rojas return to provide experience, but the team faces the challenge of replacing Kobe King, a second-team All-Big Ten player. Following the Blue-White game on April 26, Head Coach James Franklin emphasized the importance of depth and development within the linebacker position, noting the progress made by younger players such as Anthony Speca and Kari Jackson.
“Speca had the most complete and consistent spring,” Franklin remarked, while also highlighting Jackson’s physicality. He acknowledged the challenges posed by potential injuries throughout the season, signaling intent to explore additional depth via the transfer portal.
Franklin underscored the unique opportunity at Penn State, referring to it as “LBU,” the most historic linebacker program in collegiate football history. "If there is a linebacker out there who wants to be part of our program, there’s an opportunity to join the room,” he stated, reflecting on the importance of maintaining robust linebacker depth to navigate the upcoming season.
As the team prepares for fall, this strategic acquisition positions Penn State to strengthen its defensive lineup significantly.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
