The Scarlet Knights will welcome one of the best recruiting classes in the nation.
Rutgers has secured the fourth-ranked wrestling recruiting class, as per InterMat’s summer rankings. This marks Coach Scott Goodale’s highest-rated recruiting class since he signed the fourth-ranked class in the 2007-2008 cycle.
The team has added 11 new wrestlers, with seven ranking in the top 25 in their respective weight classes: Ayden Smith (No. 2, projected at 125 pounds), Conner Harer (No. 3, projected at 165 pounds), Andrew Barbosa (No. 7), Nate Blanchette (No. 9, projected at 165 pounds), Mason Gibson (No. 14, projected at 125 pounds), Alex Nini (No. 23, projected at 141 pounds), and Ryan Ford (No. 23, projected at 157 pounds).
“This class is filled with talent and individuals who can make an immediate impact on our already skilled roster,” said Goodale.
Last season, Rutgers finished No. 14 in the coaches’ poll, marking their twelfth appearance in the top 25 under Coach Goodale. The team achieved two top ten finishes in the 2024 NCAA Wrestling Championships, with two All-Americans. Eight out of ten starters qualified for nationals. Additionally, Rutgers placed sixth at the 2024 Big Ten Wrestling Championships, highlighted by Dylan Shawver’s individual title, seven conference place winners, and a team total of 87.5 points.
