Linebacker Von Walker, a senior captain and one of the program’s most heartwarming stories, suffered a career-ending knee injury in the waning moments of last Saturday’s game against Rutgers, meaning his playing days in Happy Valley are over. His season-ending injury is one more on a lengthy list of them for the Lions, joining players like Nyeem Wartman-White, Jan Johnson, Jake Cooper, Jason Vranic, Andrew Nelson, and Paris Palmer.

pic.twitter.com/yyOAwrT9wq

— Von Walker (@VTW21) November 22, 2016

Walker began his career as a walk-on running back who made appearances on all sides of the ball his true freshman season. He made an impact as a kick and punt returner, but switched to safety in the same season. Known for his versatility, Walker eventually transitioned to linebacker, where he remained until suffering his injury.

Walker’s hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed by James Franklin and his staff. In April of 2015, Franklin awarded Walker a full scholarship for his efforts by affectionately announcing to the team, “I’m not giving him shit. He earned this.”

Past teammates like Jesse Della Valle and Brian Tomasetti tweeted their support to Walker upon hearing the news of his injury.

The Blueprint of a hard-nosed player. 1 of the toughest guys I’ve ever played with. It was a pleasure playing with 25. One hell of a career pic.twitter.com/6CiWYDYx22

— Jesse Della Valle (@TheKidJDV) November 22, 2016

My brother since the first day I stepped on campus. Love you FAMILY . Forever the ? https://t.co/UMYSlvpUsi

— Brian Tomasetti (@Tomasetti2x) November 22, 2016

Thank you for your commitment to the program, Von, and all the best to you in your future endeavors.