Penn State linebacker Dominic DeLuca took to social media on Wednesday night to announce his decision to return to Penn State in 2025.

He racked up 40 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, 0.5 sacks, and 3 interceptions in 2024. DeLuca was tied with Zakee Wheatley, Jaylen Reed, and Tony Rojas for the team lead in INTs.

DeLuca split snaps with Rojas and Kobe King, while also being a key special teams contributor.

“I’m back. I will return to Penn State for the 2025 season,” said DeLuca’s official announcement post.

DeLuca has played in 44 career games with the Nittany Lions. During that time, he has racked up 98 tackles, 11 TFLs, 2.5 sacks, and 5 INTs.

Before college. DeLuca starred for Wyoming High School in Pittston, PA. The defender was not rated as a recruit and walked on at Penn State after receiving no DI scholarship offers. DeLuca was able to parlay that walk-on opportunity into a multiple-year starting job and a potential NFL future.

DeLuca and the Nittany Lions were incredible on defense in 2024. The team finished with the No. 9 rushing defense, No. 31 passing defense, No. 8 scoring defense, and the No. 7 total defense. The stout defense led the Nittany Lions to the semifinals of the College Football Playoff where they fell to Notre Dame.

In addition to keeping DeLuca, the Nittany Lions have added 3 players to the defense via the transfer portal. Edge rushers Owen Wafle and Enai White and defensive back King Mack will look to contribute in 2025.