Brenton Strange NFL Draft Overview
Position: Tight End
Height: 6’ 3”
Weight: 250 pounds
School: Penn State
2023 NFL Draft: Brenton Strange Scouting Report
Brenton Strange is an athletic tight end coming out of Penn State University. Strange began his career in 2019 as a true freshman. He would eventually redshirt after an unimpactful freshman campaign. Strange was a four-star recruit out of Parkersburg, West Virginia. He holds the school’s records, both single season and career, for catches, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. He also holds the career school record for interception returns for touchdowns. Strange put his athleticism on display on both sides of the football as a tight end and as a defensive back.
Strange first made an impact for the Nittany Lions in 2021 during his redshirt sophomore season. He made his first splash with 255 yards and three scores highlighted by a 71-yard and two-touchdown performance against Auburn in Week 2. Coming into 2021, Strange earned All-Big Ten honorable mention and was added to the Mackey Award watch list.
Strange furthered his draft stock last season with 32 catches and 362 yards. He added five scores to that tally and earned All-Big Ten third-team honors. Strange decided to forgo his senior season and declare for the 2023 NFL Draft.
NFL Readiness
Strange is best known for his strength and athleticism. This versatile tight end is effective both as a receiver and blocker. He would benefit from some technical work on his blocking, including training with hand technique, but his strength and quickness will make up for some inexperience. Strange has good speed running a 4.7 40-yard dash adding to his prowess as a route runner. He is not one of the elite names atop the position and therefore could slip to teams pursuing a tight end later in the draft. If Strange slips in the draft he could end up as an elite passer on an explosive offense and kickstart his career.
Pancakes anyone? Brenton Strange cleared the way for Nick Singleton's big run. pic.twitter.com/q26WTcvE0K
— Mark Brennan (@MarkXBrennan) September 17, 2022
Strengths
- Already possesses NFL strength;
- Fast for the position – can outrun linebackers and some safeties;
- Great route runner;
- Versatile player that can handle multiple responsibilities;
- Mismatch for linebackers
Weaknesses
- Lacking technical blocking fundamentals;
- Has some drops on film;
- Inexperienced as the primary pass catcher – unlikely to ever be the focal point of a passing attack;
- Lacks home run ability;
- Second-Tier prospect.
NFL Comparison: Tyler Conklin, Austin Hooper
Teams With Need at Tight End: Dallas Cowboys, Las Vegas Raiders, Detroit Lions, Cincinnati Bengals, Los Angeles Chargers, Kansas City Chiefs, New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers
Final Thoughts on Brenton Strange
Strange is an athletic and versatile tight end. He is a 6’-3” prospect with good speed and above-average strength as a blocker. While he doesn’t have experience as the primary pass-catcher, Strange made a significant impact at Penn State. He earned his starting position as a consistent run and pass blocker, as well as a weapon in the passing game. Had the Nittany Lions secured a more prolific passer, Strange should have become a prospect with much more hype coming out of college.
● PSU TE Duo ●
Brenton Strange & Theo Johnson
Combined Career Stats
• 61 Receptions
• 662 Receiving yards
• 10.9 ypc
• 7 Receiving TDs pic.twitter.com/CPWJsSYG22— NCAAF Nation (@NCAAFNation247) July 19, 2022
He has some work to do correcting flaws in his blocking technique but he exhibits the necessary size, strength, and demeanor to earn a three-down role and stay on the field. If Strange can solidify his blocking ability he could break into the starting lineup and showcase his athleticism. The team and offensive scheme are crucial to Strange’s success in the NFL. With several other tight end prospects, Strange could slide later in the draft and wind up with an elite offense.
Strange has all the tools to make an impact in the NFL. He has the potential to become a three-down tight end improving his impact with screen passes and play-action scenarios. The former Nittany Lion could become an above-average tight end thanks to his speed and route-running ability. If he can break onto the field, he could become a consistent piece in both the receiving and running games with the ability to move the chains or score in the redzone.
