In a move that has electrified the Penn State football community, former NFL linebacker and Nittany Lions legend **Paul Posluszny is officially returning to Happy Valley this time on the sidelines. The university announced today that Posluszny has been named linebackers coach bringing one of the most beloved figures in program history back home to help restore the pride and power of Linebacker U.
Posluszny, affectionately known as “**Poz**,” was one of the most dominant linebackers in Penn State history. Playing under head coach Joe Paterno from 2003 to 2006, he was a two-time **All-American**, a **Butkus Award** winner, and one of only a handful of players to win the **Chuck Bednarik Award** twice. His leadership, discipline, and relentless tackling made him a fan favorite and a defining force during the Nittany Lions’ 2005 Big Ten Championship run.
After graduating, Posluszny was selected in the second round of the **2007 NFL Draft** by the Buffalo Bills and later became a cornerstone of the Jacksonville Jaguars defense. Over 11 NFL seasons, he tallied over 1,200 tackles and was a team captain known for his work ethic and football IQ. Since retiring in 2017, Posluszny has remained connected to the game through mentorship and appearances at Penn State events, but his full-circle return marks a significant milestone both for him and the university.
In his new role, Posluszny will lead a linebacker unit that has historically been the heart of Penn State’s defensive identity. The program has long been known as **‘Linebacker U,’** producing legends like Jack Ham, Shane Conlan, LaVar Arrington, and NaVorro Bowman. With Posluszny now mentoring the next generation, fans and alumni are hopeful that the legacy will be reignited with fresh energy and a renewed commitment to excellence.
Head Coach **James Franklin** expressed his excitement about the hire, stating, “Bringing Paul back is a game-changer. He embodies everything Penn State football is about—toughness, integrity, discipline, and tradition. His experience at both the collegiate and professional levels will be invaluable to our players.”
Posluszny, visibly moved during the press announcement, shared his gratitude and ambition. “This place gave me everything—an education, lifelong friendships, and the opportunity to chase my dreams. Now it’s my turn to give back. I want to help these young men become the best players and people they can be, and I want to make sure Penn State remains the gold standard for linebacker play.”
The timing of his return couldn’t be better, as Penn State continues to position itself as a national title contender. With Posluszny now back on the field—not as a player, but as a coach—the Nittany Lions are poised to embrace a powerful blend of tradition and ambition. For fans, alumni, and current players alike, Paul Posluszny’s homecoming marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Penn State’s storied football legacy.
