After some tough news about their star wide receiver Koby Howard
, Penn State fans will have to conted with another injury. While it is slightly less significant that Howard's, fans don't want this recent injury bug to become a trend. It was announced on Wednesday that redshirt freshman O-lineman Will Tompkinswill miss the rest of the season with what is considered a "unique" injury according to head coach Matt Campbell.At 6-5, 311 pounds, many in Penn State's staff considered Tompkins to be an intriguing developmental piece. He only spent one season with the Iowa State Cyclones before transferring and was the No. 33 overall offensive lineman in the transfer portal. In fact, while Tompkins will most likely maintain his redshirt, he did play
28 snaps against Marshall in Week 1, which was the most for any non-start on the O-line. He most importantly proved how versatile he was in training camp, taking reps at left guard, center, and right guard.
Now the Nittany Lions' offensive line depth will be tested. If Tompkins was considered as someone who could step in, now players such as Chimdy Onoh and Devin Harbour could be relied upon. This is also important due to the injury status of freshman centerBrock Riker as well. While he is only listed as questionable, Penn State will probably continue to monitor his situation, especially as Big Ten play gets underway.
Before, the offensive line was considered to be a strength for the Nittany Lions. With the perfect balance of experience and youthful energy, it was expected to help the Nittany Lions transition from the Franklin to the Campbell era. Now though, questions about its depth could start to pop up at a seemingly inopportune time.
This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: Redshirt freshman O-lineman out for the season for Penn State
