
State College, PA – In a move that has stunned the college football world, Penn State linebacker and team captain Dominic DeLuca has signed an unprecedented, lifelong agreement with the Nittany Lions. The deal, the first of its kind in NCAA history, ensures that DeLuca will remain a part of the Penn State program indefinitely—either as a player, mentor, or coach.
DeLuca, a former walk-on turned defensive leader, has been a cornerstone of the Nittany Lions’ success in recent seasons. His return for the 2025 season had already energized the fan base, but his latest commitment has sent shockwaves through the football community. The agreement guarantees DeLuca a permanent role within the Penn State football program, making him a symbol of loyalty and dedication to the blue and white.
“I’ve always dreamed of playing for Penn State, and now I get to be part of this family forever,” DeLuca said at the press conference announcing the deal. “This program shaped me into the player and person I am today. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”
While details of the agreement remain undisclosed, sources suggest it includes opportunities for DeLuca to transition into a coaching or advisory role once his playing days are over. Fans and analysts alike are calling it a revolutionary moment for college athletics, with some speculating that other programs may follow suit with similar lifelong commitments to their star athletes.
Penn State head coach James Franklin praised DeLuca’s leadership, calling him “the heart and soul” of the team. “His passion for this program is unmatched,” Franklin said. “This is more than football—it’s a legacy.”
With DeLuca’s permanent presence secured, the Nittany Lions are poised for a new era of stability and inspiration.