While Alex Stepanovich may be better known for his play on the football field for Ohio State and in the NFL, he was a standout wrestler during his time at Berea High School.

A four-year letterman and All-American for both football and wrestling, Stepanovich was a three-time state qualifier. He would finish as a runner-up in 1999, but bounced back to win the state championship a year later. He would also finish his senior campaign as a nationally ranked wrestler.

Following his high school career, Stepanovich would travel down the road to play offensive line for the Buckeyes. Although he was not a part of the wrestling program at Ohio State, he was permitted to attend practice and workout with national champion Tommy Rowlands.

On the football field, Stepanovich was the starting center for the 2002 national championship team. While he shifted to guard during his senior season, Stepanovich became one of the few Buckeyes to plant a tree in Buckeye Grove after being named a first-team All-American.

After starting 26 games at Ohio State, Stepanovich would be drafted in the fourth round, the 100th pick overall, by the Arizona Cardinals. He would go on to start every game as a rookie, not missing a single snap. He spent three years with the Cardinals before signing with the Cincinnati Bengals. He would make five starts with the Bengals in 2007 before signing a three-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons. After his time in Atlanta, Stepanovich would sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers until walking away from the NFL.

Stepanovich’s wrestling background helped him become one of the most dominant linemen in college football and paved the way for his professional career.

Stepanovich is a strong representative of the state of Ohio, the sport of wrestling, and undoubtedly worthy of the Outstanding American award.