Senior Captain Von Walker’s Penn State Career Ends

Penn State linebacker Von Walker, a senior special teams captain, suffered a career-ending knee injury in the waning moments of last Saturday’s game against Rutgers, meaning his playing days in Happy Valley are over.

His season-ending injury is one more on a lengthy list for the Lions, joining players like Nyeem Wartman-White, Jan Johnson, Jake Cooper, Jason Vranic, Andrew Nelson, and Paris Palmer.

Walker began his career as a walk-on running back who made appearances on all sides of the ball his true freshman season. He made an impact as a kick and punt returner, but switched to safety in the same season. Known for his versatility, Walker eventually transitioned to linebacker, where he remained until suffering his injury.

pic.twitter.com/yyOAwrT9wq

— Von Walker (@VTW21) November 22, 2016

Walker’s hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed by James Franklin and his staff. In April of 2015, Franklin awarded Walker a full scholarship for his efforts.

Past teammates like Jesse Della Valle and Brian Tomasetti tweeted their support to Walker upon hearing the news of his injury.

The Blueprint of a hard-nosed player. 1 of the toughest guys I’ve ever played with. It was a pleasure playing with 25. One hell of a career pic.twitter.com/6CiWYDYx22

— Jesse Della Valle (@TheKidJDV) November 22, 2016

My brother since the first day I stepped on campus. Love you FAMILY . Forever the 🐐 https://t.co/UMYSlvpUsi

— Brian Tomasetti (@Tomasetti2x) November 22, 2016