In a surprising turn of events, LaVar Arrington II, the son of former Penn State All-American linebacker LaVar Arrington, has committed to the Penn State Nittany Lions, choosing them over other prominent programs such as Tennessee, LSU, and Texas Tech .
Arrington II, a 6-foot-3, 205-pound linebacker from Charter Oak High School in Covina, California, is a three-star recruit who recorded 65 tackles and 12 sacks during his junior season . Despite being ranked 45th overall in California for the class of 2025, his decision to join Penn State has garnered significant attention due to his father’s legacy at the university .
LaVar Arrington Sr. had a distinguished college career at Penn State from 1997 to 1999, earning First Team All-American honors and being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2022 . He was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2000 NFL Draft and had a notable NFL career with Washington, where he was a three-time Pro Bowler and a two-time All-Pro .
The younger Arrington’s commitment adds to Penn State’s impressive 2025 recruiting class, which includes 21 commits and is ranked eighth overall by 247Sports . His decision underscores the program’s ability to attract top talent, even from legacy families.
Arrington II’s choice to follow in his father’s footsteps at Penn State is not only a nod to family tradition but also a testament to the program’s enduring appeal. As he prepares to join the Nittany Lions, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how he contributes to the team’s future success.
