Penn State has one of the deepest defensive lines not only in the Big Ten but also in the country entering the 2024 season. But a key piece of that group appears set to watch from the sidelines.

Penn State defensive end Zuriah Fisher, an Aliquippa native, is out “indefinitely” with an injury suffered during spring practice, a team spokesperson confirmed Thursday. The news was first reported by on3.

Fisher, who did not participate in the Blue-White game at Beaver Stadium, was set to compete for playing time in a crowded defensive end group. Abdul Carter, a converted All-Big Ten linebacker, and former five-star Dani Dennis-Sutton are slated to start. But Fisher was expected to be a rotational factor along with redshirt senior Amin Vanover and sophomore Jameial Lyons.

Fisher joins reserve quarterback Jaxon Smolik and linebacker Keon Wylie as notable injuries for the Nittany Lions coming out of spring ball.

Fisher was coming off a productive redshirt junior season. He appeared in all 13 games and recorded 16 tackles, 3 1/2 sacks and a fumble recovery. Fisher was in the rotation behind first-round pick Chop Robinson and third-rounder Adisa Isaac.

Fisher ranked fourth among Penn State edge rushers in defensive snaps (237), according to Pro Football Focus. Dennis-Sutton (445 snaps), Isaac (400) and Robinson (303) led the way.

Penn State is deep at defensive end with Carter and Dennis-Sutton starting, Vanover providing a veteran presence and Lyons eager to deliver a breakout season. But it’s an unfortunate break for Fisher. He missed all but two games in 2022 with a serious injury suffered that spring.

At the very least, Penn State will start its 2024 season against West Virginia on Aug. 31 without Fisher. The Nittany Lions and Mountaineers will kick off at noon. The game will air on Fox.

Copyright ©2025— Trib Total Media, LLC (TribLIVE.com)