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 Penn State Nittany Lions bring back four captains from their 2025 roster, including former walk-on Dom DeLuca.

Penn State football's starting special teams unit are all making a return in 2025, special teams coordinator Justin Lustig announced on Wednesday morning. Placekicker Ryan Barker, punter Riley Thompson, kickoff specialist Gabe Nwosu and long snapper Tyler Duzansky are all expected back.

Penn State quarterback Drew Allar will have his center back next season. Nick Dawkins, a fellow captain who started all 16 games at center for the Nittany Lions, announced Tuesday that he will return for a sixth year in 2025.