Despite the evolving landscape of college football, DeLuca’s journey demonstrates that the walk-on route is still a strong and achievable path to success, motivating future players to pursue their dreams regardless of the challenges.
Dom DeLuca’s return for the 2025 season is the latest chapter in a story that
highlights the perseverance and determination at the heart of Penn State
football. The linebacker’s incredible rise from walk-on to team captain
exemplifies the kind of relentless drive that has long defined the Nittany Lions
program. DeLuca’s journey is not just a testament to his individual grit but
also part of a broader legacy of walk-ons at Penn State who have made their
mark on college football.
A Journey Defined by Grit and Determination.
Dom DeLuca’s football career has been defined by resilience and hard work. A
standout in high school, he led his team to a PIAA state championship in 2019
despite playing with a torn ACL, a feat that demonstrated his toughness and
commitment to the game. His journey to Penn State began as a walk-on in
2021, where DeLuca redshirted his first year, gradually adjusting to the
demanding level of college football.
In 2022, his hard work began to pay off, as he became a key contributor to the
Nittany Lions’ defense, finishing the season with 29 tackles, a sack, and even
blocking a punt. His performance earned him a scholarship in early 2023, a
milestone that was celebrated by teammates and coaches alike. By the end of
the 2023 season, DeLuca had firmly established himself as a leader on and off
the field. He recorded 29 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, a sack, two interceptions,
and two forced fumbles, including a defensive touchdown.
DeLuca’s legacy solidified during Penn State’s first-ever College Football
Playoff appearance in January 2024, where he starred with two interceptions
against SMU, one of which he returned for a touchdown. As a team captain,
DeLuca embodies the qualities of resilience and leadership that have been the
foundation of Penn State football for generations.
The Changing Landscape of Walk-Ons in College Football.
DeLuca’s story takes on even more significance as college football continues to
evolve. With the introduction of revenue sharing, the rise of Name, Image, and
Likeness (NIL) deals, and the tightening of roster limits, the landscape for
walk-ons has changed dramatically. These shifts are making it more difficult
for walk-ons to earn scholarships or meaningful playing time.
The financial landscape has also changed, with NIL deals providing financial
support to athletes and helping alleviate some of the financial burdens
traditionally faced by walk-ons. However, the increasing emphasis on
scholarship players and the growing competitiveness of college football raises
the question: are walk-on success stories like DeLuca’s becoming rarer?
Despite these challenges, DeLuca’s rise proves that the walk-on route is still a
viable path for those with the right combination of determination, talent, and
work ethic. His success stands as a shining example for anyone pursuing the
unconventional route to college football greatness. Penn State head coach
James Franklin has acknowledged the impact walk-ons have had on the
program’s history, stating, “There have been so many special stories over the
years of walk-ons, whether they’ve earned a scholarship or not, they’ve been
such a significant part of the game and our history.”
Penn State’s Rich Legacy of Walk-Ons.
Dom DeLuca’s success is part of a long-standing tradition of walk-ons at Penn
State, a program that has produced numerous remarkable stories of
perseverance. These players have overcome the odds to achieve greatness, and
DeLuca’s journey aligns with this proud legacy. Let’s take a look at a few other
legendary walk-ons who made their mark at Penn State:
- Matt McGloin – Quarterback (2009-2012) McGloin joined Penn State as a walk-on in 2009 and went on to become the Nittany Lions’ starting quarterback, setting a school record with 3,271 passing yards in 2012. He also won the prestigious Burlsworth Award for the top college football player who started as a walk-on.
- Carl Nassib – Defensive End (2011-2015) Nassib’s incredible transformation from walk-on to national sensation culminated in leading the nation in sacks in 2015 with 15.5. He was awarded the Lombardi Award and was later drafted by the Cleveland Browns. Nassib made history as the NFL’s first openly gay active player.
- Jordan Norwood – Wide Receiver (2005-2008) Norwood joined Penn State as a walk-on and earned a scholarship by 2006. He went on to accumulate over 2,000 receiving yards and later played in the NFL, winning a Super Bowl with the Denver Broncos in 2016.
- Dan Chisena – Wide Receiver (2015-2019) Originally a track standout, Chisena walked onto the football team and earned a scholarship in 2019. He became a key special teams contributor and went on to play for the Minnesota Vikings and the Carolina Panthers in the NFL.
- Robbie Gould – Kicker (2001-2004) Gould earned a scholarship in 2003 after joining the team as a walk-on. His successful college career led to a long and decorated NFL career, where he became one of the most accurate kickers in league history.
The Lasting Impact of Walk-Ons at Penn State.
As Dom DeLuca looks ahead to the 2025 season, he carries the torch for every
walk-on who has come before him, from McGloin to Gould. His story is a
reminder of the power of perseverance, and it reinforces the lasting impact
that walk-ons have had on Penn State’s storied football program. Even as the
landscape of college football changes, DeLuca’s rise proves that the walk-on
path remains a powerful and viable route to success, inspiring the next
generation of players to chase their dreams against the odds.
