A Legacy Locked in Number 62
When the Nittany Lions took the field each autumn, the number 62 was more than a jersey; it was a symbol of continuity. Michal Menet became the final Penn State player to wear that number, capping a lineage that had come to represent grit and excellence on the offensive line.
A five‑star recruit in the 2016 class, Menet arrived in State College with the label of the top offensive guard in the nation. Rankings from 247Sports highlighted his rare blend of size, technique and football IQ, positioning him as a cornerstone for the program’s future.
His collegiate journey spanned a unique era. The pandemic‑shortened 2020 season tested the team’s resolve, yet Menet remained a constant presence, guiding younger linemen through unprecedented challenges while preserving the program’s competitive edge.
The fruits of his labor materialized in back‑to‑back All‑Big Ten selections in 2019 and 2020. Coaches and teammates alike praised his ability to command the trenches, noting that his preparation set a standard for every player who followed.
From Happy Valley to the NFL
In the 2021 NFL Draft, Menet’s perseverance paid off when the Arizona Cardinals selected him in the seventh round. The transition from college guard to professional prospect was not guaranteed, but his reputation as a diligent worker and locker‑room leader preceded him.
Now donning the cardinal red, Menet carries with him the lessons forged in Happy Valley. His story illustrates how a single jersey number can encapsulate a decade of growth, from highly touted recruit to NFL contributor, while leaving an indelible mark on Penn State’s football heritage.