LaVar Arrington, a Penn State football legend, made his way back to Happy Valley to look back on his career, the changing world of college sports, and his son’s new chapter with the Nittany Lions.
Arrington, who played for Penn State from 1997 to 1999 and was the No. 2 pick in the 2000 NFL Draft, met fans at Champs downtown. The event, part of Venmo’s Town Hall takeover, gave Arrington a chance to talk about Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, the Penn State football legacy, and his hopes for his son, LaVar Arrington II.
If you want all the details, the full article’s up on Onward State.
The Changing Landscape of College Sports with NIL Deals
LaVar Arrington talked about how college athletics are turning into more of a business, but he thinks Penn State should keep its core values front and center. NIL deals, like Drew Allar’s recent partnership with Venmo, are changing things fast, but Arrington says academics and integrity should still matter most.
Balancing Tradition and Modernization
Arrington pointed out that Penn State has to stick to its traditions, even as the world of college sports keeps shifting. He’s convinced the school’s focus on academics and building character shouldn’t get lost, even with all these new NIL opportunities popping up.
The Impact of NIL on Student-Athletes
With NIL now in play, student-athletes can finally cash in on their personal brands. Arrington admitted it’s empowering, but also kind of a headache—athletes have to juggle endorsements and money stuff while still keeping their heads in the game and the classroom.
LaVar Arrington II: Continuing the Legacy
Arrington’s son, LaVar Arrington II, is now with the Nittany Lions, following his dad’s path. The expectations are sky-high, but Arrington II seems ready to take it slow and focus on developing as a player.
Arrington’s guidance—and the Penn State values he’s always talked about—are a big part of his son’s growth.
A Homegrown Talent
Penn State’s always been a huge part of the Arrington family story. The values Arrington picked up at the university have definitely rubbed off on his kids.
Arrington II had options, but Penn State just felt like home. That sense of belonging and loyalty really runs deep for them.
Trusting the Process
Arrington stressed that patience and sticking with it matter more than instant success. He figures real achievement comes from helping the team and learning along the way, not just from quick wins.
That’s the mindset Arrington II is trying to keep as he faces the pressure of college football.
The Legacy of Linebacker U
Penn State’s earned its “Linebacker U” nickname, turning out top linebackers year after year. Arrington, a two-time All-American, is a big part of that story.
He sees the same kind of promise in current players like Abdul Carter and Micah Parsons.
Abdul Carter: A Rising Star
Arrington called out Abdul Carter’s work ethic and potential, saying the kid’s got what it takes to stand out. Carter’s learning to believe in himself and really understands that hard work pays off—pretty much the Penn State linebacker blueprint.
Micah Parsons: A New Standard
Micah Parsons is already making waves in the NFL, setting a new bar for linebackers coming up behind him. Arrington’s quick to praise Parsons’ talent and production, and it’s clear he thinks Parsons is the real deal.
Penn State’s Defensive Strength
This season, the Nittany Lions’ defense has been something to see, with plenty of depth and talent on display. Arrington’s confident in the group, especially the linebackers who keep up the tradition of excellence.
A Showcase of Talent
The defense is loaded with gifted players, and Arrington thinks their performances show just how solid the program’s foundation is. It’s not just about one or two stars—it’s everyone stepping up and making the team better.
The Enduring Legacy of Joe Paterno
Arrington reflected on the lasting influence of Joe Paterno, the legendary Penn State coach. Paterno’s 409 wins and the culture he built still shape the program every time the Nittany Lions take the field.
Building on a Strong Foundation
Arrington gave credit to current head coach James Franklin for moving the program forward while respecting Paterno’s legacy. Franklin’s managed to keep Penn State’s values alive, and Arrington seems genuinely hopeful about where the team’s headed.
A Legacy That Spans Generations
Arrington pointed out that the excitement around Penn State football isn’t new. It’s something that runs through great-grandparents, grandparents, parents, and now their kids too.
This legacy really shows how much the program has meant to so many. There’s just something about Penn State football that sticks with people and keeps it relevant year after year.
If you want to dive deeper into LaVar Arrington’s thoughts on Penn State football, NIL deals, and what the Nittany Lions mean to him, check out Onward State.
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews
