Penn State Wrestling: Is Braeden Davis Ready For Big Tens?

Originally posted on Nittany Sports Now | By Joe Smeltzer | Last updated Mar 5, 2025 6:30 PM ET

Penn State wrestling fans are wondering what Braeden Davis’ status will be for this weekend’s Big Ten Championships.

Although his No. 5 ranking might indicate otherwise, it’s been a bumpy year for the 133-pounder because of health.

Penn State Wrestling Rankings: Starter Cracks Top 5

Davis hurt his knee in Penn State’s first dual meet of the season, which took place Nov. 17 against Drexel.

More injury problems took place in late January, leading to Davis being out against Iowa, Michigan and Maryland. Davis returned to wrestle against Ohio State and Illinois in early February but didn’t go in the team’s regular-season finale against American Feb. 21.

But coach Cael Sanderson said Davis is expected to be at his best when the Big Ten Championships begin this weekend.

WHAT CAEL SAID

Photo by Matt Lynch, Nittany Sports Now: Cael Sanderson

Here’s what Cael said about Davis’ status.

“He’s looking good, he’s doing good. Feeling good. I think this will be the best and healthiest he’s been since before the season started. I think he tweaked himself in the first match out, right? So he’s had some time to recover and he’s made some adjustments. Dan’s (trainer Dan Monthley) done a great job with him, he’s helped him figure a few things out. So I think he’ll be ready to roll.”

So how does Penn State balance getting Davis ready to compete and being cautious with his health?

“I think that’s just part of sports,” Sanderson said. “A lot of times, it’s not even the physical (aspect), it’s more the mental. Just making sure they stay sharp mentally and they believe that they’re ready if they’re used to training a certain way and now they have to adjust things. We don’t get too worried about this things. History kind of shows sometimes guys being off the mat ends up being a blessing. It just doesn’t really… you just don’t know. It’s up to the kids. They’re the ones that kind of get out there and make it happen or not. But our guys are ready to go. We’re excited, guys like competing and we have a great challenge this weekend. So, it’ll be fun.”