A Historic Honor
The Sporting News has released its ‘All‑America Teams by the Decades’ list, spotlighting five former Penn State football players who have left an indelible mark on the program’s legacy. The recognition arrives as the university prepares for the 2026 fall camp, reviving memories of past greats.
Ted Kwalick, a tight end who finished fourth in Heisman Trophy voting in 1968, remains third all‑time at Penn State for career receiving yards among tight ends with 1,343. In tribute to his contributions, the Big Ten’s Tight End of the Year award bears his name.
Shane Conlan, a linebacker, earned two‑time All‑American honors and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2014. He was pivotal in the 1986 national title game, recording two interceptions that helped secure the championship.
Sean Farrell, an offensive lineman, was a two‑time All‑American and a finalist for both the Lombardi and Outland awards in 1981. His collegiate excellence translated to the professional ranks when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected him in the first round of the 1982 NFL Draft.
LaVar Arrington distinguished himself with a sophomore season that produced both the Butkus and Bednarik Awards, making him the first player in Big Ten history to be named Defensive Player of the Year at that stage of his career.
Saquon Barkley, a running back, finished fourth in the 2017 Heisman Trophy voting and holds school records for rushing touchdowns, total touchdowns, all‑purpose yards, and receptions, cementing his status as one of the most versatile players in Penn State history.
The list notably omits 1950s standouts Richie Lucas and Lenny Moore, yet it highlights that three of the five honorees — Kwalick, Conlan, and Arrington — are members of the College Football Hall of Fame, having been first‑team All‑Americans during their collegiate careers.
As the 2026 fall camp begins, the release of the All‑America Teams by the Decades list serves as a reminder of Penn State’s rich football heritage and the lasting influence of its alumni on the sport.