Has entered the portal. Hate to see this guy go. He was an AA that lost his starting spot to Dean in a VERY close wrestle off. Would like to see him head to Northwestern. He had originally given them a verbal and then flipped to PSU. But Michigan is also a possibility. Great all around kid.
Edsell will not be returning next year either. Had a lower back injury for much of the season. This guy was a great team player. Would fill in wherever he was needed and was a great wrestling partner in the room. He'll be missed. Still think he deserved a shot at nationals this past year.
Surprised it took so long for Beard to enter the portal. Good for him. Obviously Dean is better but my money to win it next year is on AJ Ferrari. Would be interesting if Beard faces Dean in Tulsa. Remember Bubba Jenkins vs David Taylor?
Right, tough for Penn State but he's too good to sit behind Dean for 2 years. Beard will find a school that can fullfill his academic skills as much as his wrestling skills. As I understand it, the Ivy's will only allow him to wrestle for 1 year so that doesn't make sense, Stanford the same. Michigan could make a run for him but we (Penn State Nation) don't want to see that. Lehigh might not have the training partners to develop his talent. In thinking about this, I too hope he finds Northwestern where he originally committed. For full disclosure, none of what I typed is my original thought, rather, its what I read on another board. My only original, and shared thought, is that I hope he finds what he needs for a great college wrestling career and more going forward.
Ferrari is indeed the odds on favorite to win next year but he won't be able to muscle Dean. I just think Dean is smart and will wrestle smart especially with Cael's match coaching.
......As for Edsell, the casual wrestling fan just can not fathom his contributions to the PSU program. He was a PIAA placer and one time state champ. He could have been a regular starter for most power wrestling programs but chose to start and finish his career at Penn State. Whatever he does with his future, he's going to be great.
