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.

The Nittany Lions bring back a significant leadership group from their 13-win team that reached the College Football Playoff semifinals.

Losing to Notre Dame to end its season is one thing. Penn State losing like this? That's still the bigger problem.

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.