Son of legendary Penn State linebacker, LaVar Arrington II, vows to carry on family legacy with commitment to Nittany Lions

LaVar Arrington had an illustrious career at Penn State from 1997-99, earning All-American honors and being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. His son, LaVar Arrington II, has committed to play football at Happy Valley, following in his father’s footsteps. Penn State fans are eager to see another Arrington don the navy blue and white.

Arrington II, a three-star recruit, is ranked as the No. 41 player in California and the No. 31 weakside defensive end in the class of 2025 by Rivals. Standing at 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds, he had an impressive junior season at Charter Oak High School with 65 tackles and 12 sacks. He had offers from multiple schools, ultimately choosing Penn State to further his education and football career.

In an Instagram post, Arrington II expressed his excitement about joining the Penn State community and continuing his family legacy at the university. His commitment makes him the 21st player in James Franklin’s 2025 recruiting class, which includes other standout recruits like Mater Dei cornerback Daryus Dixson, ranked as a four-star recruit by Rivals.

Arrington Sr.’s legacy at Penn State includes multiple awards and accolades, such as All-America honors, the Jack Lambert Trophy, Dick Butkus Award, and Chuck Bednarik award. He was also a finalist for the 1999 Heisman Trophy. After a successful college career, Arrington was drafted No. 2 overall in the 2000 NFL Draft by Washington and played in the NFL for several seasons.

Despite injuries forcing him to retire after the 2006 season, Arrington’s impact on the football community has endured, as evidenced by his College Football Hall of Fame induction in 2002. Now, his son is poised to make his mark at Penn State, carrying on the family tradition of excellence on the football field.