Penn State Football: Nittany Lions two-deep depth chart projection

Linebacker

Starting outside linebackers: Koa Farmer, Cam Brown
Backups: Jarvis Miller, Jan Johnson, Manny Bowen

The Lions lost two starting linebackers and the position is a little unsettled but has a lot of talent. Koa Farmer is the group’s lone starter returning, leading the linebackers with 47 tackles. He will be expected to contribute even more this season. Cam Brown gets the nod at the other outside spot primarily due to his experience. He has two starts and 24 game appearances in the last two seasons.

Redshirt juniors Jarvis Miller and Jan Johnson should also see some time. The surprise this summer was the return of Manny Bowen, who was dismissed from the team before the Fiesta Bowl. James Franklin would not give details on his return other than he’s back but he won’t be starting. With the most experience out of any linebacker, he is sure to contribute and his role may increase during the season as he proves his issues are behind him.

Starting Mike linebacker: Micah Parsons
Backup: Jake Cooper

It is not very often a true freshman can make an instant impact, but Micah Parsons is that kind of talent. The five-star recruit arrived early in January and hit the ground running, showing off his skills with leading the team in tackles with eight at the annual Blue-White game in the spring. Parsons is physically gifted at six-foot-three 243 pounds and is ready for prime time.

Jake Cooper has been around the program awhile and looking to be a bigger contributor in his final season. He could see time at any of the linebacker positions. Also, keep an eye on Jesse Luketa who is not listed. Like Parsons, Luketa enrolled early in January and could find his way into the rotation.