The NFL’s tight end position has evolved dramatically over the past decade, shifting from a role focused solely on blocking to one that demands versatility—blending physicality in the run game with playmaking ability in the passing attack. Few young players embody this modern archetype better than Brenton Strange, a 23-year-old talent who has quickly emerged as a key piece of the Jacksonville Jaguars’ offense. From his standout college career at Penn State to his promising rookie season in the NFL, Strange has proven he has the skills, work ethic, and drive to become a household name in professional football.
Brenton Strange’s College Journey at Penn State
Brenton Strange’s path to the NFL began in Farrell, Pennsylvania, where he starred at Mercer Area High School as a 4-star recruit. His combination of size (6’4”, 255 lbs) and athleticism caught the eye of Penn State’s coaching staff, who saw his potential to excel as a tight end in their system.
Strange redshirted his freshman year (2019) to refine his skills, but by his sophomore season (2020), he started to make an impact. He appeared in all 9 games, recording 5 catches for 75 yards—small numbers, but a sign of things to come. It was his junior year (2021) that marked his breakthrough: 22 receptions for 310 yards and 3 touchdowns, including a memorable 25-yard TD catch against Ohio State that showcased his ability to separate from defenders and make big plays downfield.
By his senior year (2022), Strange had become a focal point of Penn State’s passing attack. He finished the season with 32 catches for 422 yards and 5 touchdowns, earning honorable mention All-Big Ten honors. His performance against Michigan State—where he hauled in 4 passes for 65 yards and a TD—highlighted his reliability as a target in critical moments. What set Strange apart from other college tight ends was his balance: he was not just a pass catcher but a willing and effective blocker, often clearing lanes for Penn State’s running backs or holding off edge rushers to protect the quarterback.
Penn State offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich praised Strange’s growth, saying, “Brenton is the kind of player every coach wants. He shows up every day ready to work, whether it’s perfecting his route running or grinding on blocking drills. He’s a team player first, and that’s why he’s been so successful.”
The 2023 NFL Draft: Jaguars Select Brenton Strange
Heading into the 2023 NFL Draft, Brenton Strange was projected as a mid-round pick, with analysts citing his versatility and upside as his biggest strengths. The Jacksonville Jaguars, looking to add depth to their tight end room alongside Evan Engram, selected Strange in the second round (61st overall).
The pick made sense for the Jaguars, who run an offense under Doug Pederson that relies heavily on tight ends in multiple formations. Pederson, known for maximizing the skills of his playmakers, saw Strange as a player who could line up in-line, in the slot, or even as a fullback—giving the team more flexibility to attack defenses.
Strange was ecstatic about joining the Jaguars, telling reporters on draft night: “I’m beyond excited to be a Jaguar. This is a team on the rise, and I can’t wait to learn from Evan [Engram] and play with Trevor [Lawrence]. I’m ready to work hard and contribute any way I can.”
Rookie Season: Brenton Strange’s Adjustment to the NFL
Strange’s rookie season in 2023 was a mix of learning and growth. He played in 15 games, starting 3, and finished with 14 receptions for 142 yards and 1 touchdown. His first NFL TD came in Week 10 against the Tennessee Titans, a 1-yard catch from Trevor Lawrence in the red zone— a moment he called “a dream come true.”
Adjusting to the NFL’s faster pace and more complex playbook was a challenge, but Strange embraced it. He spent extra time after practice studying film with Lawrence, learning the nuances of the Jaguars’ offense and how to read defenses. His blocking skills translated well to the professional level; he was a key contributor in the run game, helping the Jaguars rank 12th in the NFL in rushing yards per game (118.1).
Pederson was impressed with Strange’s rookie campaign, noting: “For a young guy, Brenton has adapted quickly. He’s not afraid to get his hands dirty, and he’s shown he can make plays when called upon. We’re excited to see what he does next year.”
Brenton Strange’s Playing Style: Versatility and Physicality
What makes Brenton Strange such a promising talent? Let’s break down his strengths:
- Physical Attributes: At 6’4” and 255 lbs, Strange has the size to dominate at the line of scrimmage and the athleticism to stretch the field. His 4.67 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine was among the top times for tight ends in his draft class, and his 33.5-inch vertical jump shows he can compete for jump balls in the end zone.
- Blocking: Strange is a physical blocker who uses his frame and strength to hold off defenders. He’s equally effective in run blocking (clearing lanes for running backs) and pass blocking (protecting the quarterback from edge rushers).
- Route Running: His routes are crisp and precise, allowing him to create separation from linebackers and safeties. He excels at intermediate routes like crosses and slants, where he can use his speed to get open.
- Hands: Strange has reliable hands, often making catches in traffic or while being tackled. He rarely drops passes, which makes him a trusted target for Lawrence.
- Versatility: As mentioned earlier, Strange can line up in multiple positions—inline, slot, or fullback. This versatility makes it hard for defenses to game-plan against him, as he can be used in both run and pass packages.
Future Outlook: Brenton Strange’s Path to Stardom
The future looks bright for Brenton Strange. With Evan Engram re-signing with the Jaguars in 2024, Strange will have another year to learn from one of the league’s top tight ends, but his role is expected to grow significantly. Pederson has hinted that he plans to use Strange more in the passing game next season, especially in red zone situations where his size and athleticism make him a dangerous threat.
Strange’s work ethic and dedication to improvement suggest he will continue to develop. He’s already known for staying late at practice to refine his skills and studying film to understand defenses better. As he gains more experience, he could become a key piece of the Jaguars’ offense—someone Lawrence can rely on for big plays and a leader in the locker room.
In conclusion, Brenton Strange is a rising star in the NFL. His journey from a small-town high school in Pennsylvania to the Jaguars’ roster is a testament to his hard work and talent. With his versatility, physicality, and drive, there’s no doubt that Strange will become one of the league’s top tight ends in the coming years. Keep an eye on him—he’s just getting started.