Penn State football’s defense got a massive boost Tuesday afternoon when linebacker Curtis Jacobs announced he’s returning for the 2023 season. Jacobs, who previously said he’d make a decision on his future following the Rose Bowl, is staying at Penn State for his junior season. “I’m back. I will return to Penn State for the 2023 season,” Jacobs simply wrote in a message posted to Twitter.
Jacobs served as one of the cornerstones on Manny Diaz’s defense this past season. The Maryland native totaled 52 tackles, 7.5 for a loss, and four sacks this season, as well as a pick-six against Michigan. He earned All-Big ten honorable mention recognition from the media and coaches following the regular season.
During his three-year career in Happy Valley, Jacobs has posted 122 tackles, 15 for a loss, seven sacks, and two interceptions.
He joins defensive end Adisa Isaac as the latest impact defender to announce their return for next season. Jacobs and Isaac will anchor Penn State’s defense in 2023 alongside the likes of Abdul Carter, Kalen King, and Chop Robinson.
More Penn State Football
View all Penn State FootballPenn State Football 2026: Floor, Ceiling, Expectations and Predictions
Kirk Herbstreit of ESPN has high hopes for Matt Campbell and his Nittany Lions in the new head coach’s first season in Happy Valley. Higher, perhaps, than even the top […]
What Are Penn State’s Chances of Making the College Football Playoff?
Penn State has made just one appearance in the College Football Playoff since it debuted in a four-team format in 2014. Immediately after the field expanded to 12 teams in […]
How Does Penn State’s Matt Campbell Do in Head Coaching Debuts and Season Openers?
Matt Campbell and the Nittany Lions open their 2026 season Saturday afternoon in Beaver Stadium against Marshall. It’s Campbell’s first game as Penn State’s head coach, and even though he’s […]
