The Penn State Nittany Lions have a very rich history when it comes to the school’s football program. More specifically, the No. 11 jersey has been worn by some of the school’s most legendary players.
From recent additions, like Abdul Carter and Micah Parsons, to former Nittany Lions greats, like LaVarr Arrington, let’s take a look at the greatest to wear “ST1X C1TY.”
Which Great Penn State Players Have Worn No. 11?
It’s time to dive into the list of great players who have decided to sport the No. 11 jersey for the Nittany Lions over the years.
DE Abdul Carter (2022-24)
Recently drafted by the New York Giants in April, the No. 3 overall pick tore it up during his storied Penn State career.
Voted as an All-American and the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in 2024, Abdul Carter recorded 23 career sacks, 13 pass deflections, and five forced fumbles across three years. His 172 tackles are a nice little statistical nugget, too.
LB Micah Parsons (2018-20)
One of the best overall players in the NFL, Micah Parsons, became that partially because of his time at State College. Despite playing inside linebacker for most of his college career, that did not stop Parsons from producing.
In two full seasons played before taking a break during the Covid-shortened season in 2020, Parsons recorded 191 total tackles, 6.5 sacks, six forced fumbles, and five pass deflections on his way to becoming the Big Ten Linebacker of the Year in 2019.
LB Brandon Bell (2013-16)
Continuing the trend of defensive players on this list, Brandon Bell was a game-wrecker for the Nittany Lions during his career.
His numbers improved every season, and he finished his career with over 200 total tackles, over 100 solo tackles, nearly 10 sacks, and four forced fumbles.
LB NaVorro Bowman (2006-09)
Before becoming a four-time First-Team All-Pro for the San Francisco 49ers, Bowman was an All-American and All-Big Ten defender at Penn State.
He finished his career with back-to-back seasons of 90+ total tackles, 17+ tackles for loss, and three or more sacks. He was a true force.
LB LaVarr Arrington (1997-99)
Arrington was the one who led the way for each of these players as he owned the field while wearing the No. 11 jersey.
RELATED: Giants Legendary QB Phil Simms’ Family Says No to Abdul Carter Wearing No. 11
The Butkus Award winner and Big Ten Co-Defensive Player of the Year recorded 173 total tackles, 39 tackles for loss, 19 sacks, and three interceptions during his time at Penn State. That is what led him to become a legend in Washington during his NFL career.
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