Delbarton senior Jayden James has been named NJ.com Wrestler of the Year, capping one of the most dominant individual seasons in recent New Jersey wrestling history and further cementing his legacy as one of Delbarton's top wrestlers in program history.

James' senior campaign was defined by excellence at every level—statewide and national. Competing at 165 pounds, he finished the season ranked No. 1 in the country, a distinction he backed up with consistent, high-level performances against the nation's best competition.

A cornerstone of Delbarton's powerhouse lineup, James played a key role in the Green Wave capturing the 2026 NJSIAA Non-Public A team championship. Individually he once again rose to the top of the podium in Atlantic City, earning another state title and reinforcing his status as a premier wrestler in New Jersey.

This season was the culmination of a remarkable high school career, especially over the last two seasons. As a junior, James went a perfect 43-0 and won his first state championship in commanding fashion. He carried that momentum into his senior year, adding major national titles to his résumé, including championships at the prestigious Doc Buchanan Invitational—one of the toughest tournaments in the country—where he won nearly every match by technical fall and the 2025 Ironman, where he would earn his #1 ranking after defeating Melvin Miller in the final.

James' rise has been marked by steady progression. After placing third as a freshman and finishing as a runner-up earlier in his career, he evolved into a two-time state champion and one of the most feared competitors in the nation. His ability to control matches, score at will, and perform under pressure made him the clear choice for NJ.com's top honor.

Beyond his accomplishments on the mat, James has also established himself as one of the nation's top recruits and is set to continue his wrestling career at Penn State, where expectations remain just as high.