Penn State Defensive Tackles Reshape 2025 Roster After NFL Departures

As Penn State prepares for the 2025 football season, the defensive tackle group is undergoing significant changes with the departures of sixth-year players Dvon J-Thomas and Coziah Izzard to the NFL. Zane Durant returns as the clear starter and a top defensive tackle prospect, aiming to build on his breakout 2024 season. He will compete alongside Alonzo Ford Jr., a sixth-year player who transferred from Old Dominion and is expected to have a major role after recovering from injury. Redshirt freshman Xavier Gilliam, praised by coaches and teammates, is expected to battle Ford for a starting spot, while Ty Blanding could see an expanded role with his increased playing time over the past two seasons. Meanwhile, Kaleb Artis is projected to continue contributing primarily on special teams rather than breaking into the starting defensive tackle rotation. Overall, the defensive tackle position features a blend of experienced veterans and promising young players as Penn State aims for another College Football Playoff run under James Franklin.