Penn State’s defense has taken another hit ahead of the Pinstripe Bowl.
After reports circulated about defensive end Zuriah Fisher opting out of the bowl and no longer being with the team, he was officially removed from the team’s online roster on Wednesday. Fisher becomes the latest in a line of Nittany Lions choosing not to participate in the bowl.
The sixth-year veteran has had an up-and-down career in Happy Valley, missing the entire 2024 season with injury before returning and earning a starting role this season. Despite playing almost twice as many snaps as in 2023, Fisher had just two more tackles (19 to 17) and fewer sacks (2 to 3.5), failing to reach expectations. With his eligibility exhausted, Fisher’s playing career is likely over, as he’s not projected to be selected in the upcoming NFL draft.
Fisher joins defensive tackle Zane Durant, safety Zakee Wheatley, running back Nick Singleton and left guard Vega Ioane as players who’ve opted out of the Pinstripe Bowl against Clemson. Additionally, defensive end Chaz Coleman, cornerbacks A.J. Harris and Elliot Washington II, offensive lineman Alex Birchmeier, tight end Joey Schlaffer, linebacker Kari Jackson and defensive end Daniel Jennings have announced plans to enter the transfer portal.
Underclassmen Yvan Kemajou and Jaylen Harvey are in the mix to start opposite Dani Dennis-Sutton and/or see an uptick in playing time on Saturday against Clemson.
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