Defining Greatness – The Top 25 Penn State Wrestlers of the Millennium
Penn State wrestling has defined dominance in collegiate athletics over the last two decades. Under the leadership of Cael Sanderson since 2009, the Nittany Lions have not only captured numerous NCAA team titles but also produced a stream of individual champions who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Here are the top 25 Penn State wrestlers of the millennium, ranked for their impact, accolades, and legacy.
1. David Taylor – 2x NCAA Champion, 4x Finalist, Hodge Trophy winner, Olympic Gold Medalist.
2. Zain Retherford – 3x NCAA Champion, 2x Hodge Trophy winner, undefeated final two seasons.
3. Bo Nickal – 3x NCAA Champion, 4x Finalist, known for highlight-reel pins.
4. Ed Ruth – 3x NCAA Champion, dominant at 174 and 184 pounds.
5. Roman Bravo-Young – 2x NCAA Champion, undefeated in final seasons, known for elite agility.
6. Aaron Brooks – 4x NCAA Champion (2021–2024), one of the most consistent performers.
7. Mark Hall – NCAA Champion, 3x Finalist, World Junior Champion.
8. Jason Nolf – 3x NCAA Champion, known for technical dominance and flair.
9. Nick Suriano – NCAA Champion for PSU and Rutgers, Olympic hopeful.
10. Kyle Snyder (transferred early) – While he finished at Ohio State, began at PSU.
11. Phil Davis – NCAA Champion, UFC fighter, known for physical dominance.
12. Matt Brown – NCAA Champion at 174, known for relentless style.
13. Quentin Wright – 2x NCAA Champion, pivotal in PSU’s early 2010s run.
14. Anthony Cassar – NCAA Champion, standout heavyweight with remarkable rise.
15. Brady Berge – Key team contributor, All-American, now coach.
16. Bryce Meredith (brief PSU stint) – All-American, known for slick technique.
17. Shakur Rasheed – Multiple-time NCAA qualifier, Big Ten champ.
18. Jimmy Gulibon – All-American, key lightweight in Sanderson’s system.
19. Frank Molinaro – NCAA Champion, Olympic wrestler.
20. Jarod Verkleeren – Solid contributor, dual meet stalwart.
21. Andrew Long – NCAA finalist, transferred from Iowa State.
22. Dan Vallimont – NCAA finalist, consistent career.
23. Nico Megaludis – NCAA Champion, 3x Finalist at 125 pounds.
24. Jimmy Lawson – Heavyweight power, football-wrestling crossover.
25. Morgan McIntosh – Multiple-time All-American, key upper-weight leader.
These athletes represent a tradition of excellence built on hard work, character, and championship spirit. Penn State’s dynasty continues, powered by new stars and an unmatched culture of success.
