Penn State safety Jonathan Sutherland to return to Lions in 2022; what’s the impact of his decision?
Penn State safety Jonathan Sutherland will return to the Lions for the 2022 season.
The ace special teamer and veteran defender announced the news on Thursday night.
“After careful thought and consideration with my loved once and coaches, I will be using my extra year of eligibility to return for my 6th season at Penn State. I want to thank my teammate, coaches,. and family for the sacrifices they have .made for me over the years.
“The memories II have made with my teammates and throughout my time here will last a lifetime. I look forward to making more. My work here Isn’t done, and I look forward to seeing everyone next season. I want to personally thank Coach Franklin and the rest of the staff for continued opportunity to be part of this culture. Let’s get to work.”
Sutherland has long been a staple on the Nittany Lions’ special teams units. He also has played in a reserve safety role the last few seasons. In 2021, he played in 10 of 12 games and made 19 tackles. The Virginia native also has an interception and a pass breakup.
What’s the impact for Penn State?
Sutherland is the second Penn State player to announce that he’ll play a sixth season. Quarterback Sean Clifford shared publicity that he would do the same earlier this month. Additionally, safety Ji’Ayir Brown will be back for a fifth college season and second in blue and white.
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“I think having a guy like Sean come out and make a public statement, I think there will be a few more of those coming out here, soon hopefully,” Penn State coach James Franklin said at local bowl media day last week.
Sutherland is just the latest.
The Lions get a three-time captain back who is a versatile defender in Sutherland. He has played both linebacker and safety at Penn State. Both positions have little veteran presence and are also light on numbers. It’s not the biggest win for new defensive coordinator Manny Diaz this off season (that nod goes to Brown at the moment), but it certainly doesn’t hurt.
Penn State finished its 2021 season in the Outback Bowl on New Year’s Day. Kickoff at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla., is set for Noon ET on ESPN2. It’s possible that Sutherland could bump up to starting outside linebacker for the matchup after Brandon Smith opted out and declared for the NFL Draft last week.
