Over the past 10 seasons, Penn State has boasted some of the best tight ends in the nation, from Mike Gesicki to Pat Freiermuth.

In his career, Brenton Strange followed in the footsteps of those Nittany Lion legends — a speedy athlete unafraid to show off his strength and playmaking ability.

Hailing from Parkersburg, West Virginia, Strange arrived at Penn State back in 2019. The 6’3″ athlete was a four-star tight end and the 14th-best player at his position, according to 247Sports.

Though he didn’t play much in his first season, Strange learned from Freiermuth while showing brief flashes. He played a combined 11 games during his true freshman and redshirt freshman seasons, scoring three touchdowns and totaling 168 receiving yards, most of which came from his second season.

After the 2020 season, Freiermuth went pro. As a result, Strange was left to lead the group heading forward. Once it was his room, he never looked back.

During 2021 — his first season as a starter — Strange recorded 225 yards off 20 receptions and also scored three touchdowns. He earned an All-Big Ten honorable mention by the media and was one of the few functioning pieces on a struggling Penn State offense.

One of his best performances in 2021 was during the White Out against Auburn. Strange snagged four catches for 71 yards and a touchdown in the win. A big 40-yard catch by Strange set up an eventual game-winning touchdown early in the fourth quarter.

The redshirt junior came into 2022 aiming not only to improve his game but the team itself. Backed by a high-powered offense, Strange recorded 362 yards and five touchdowns to help Penn State finish its season 11-2 and with a Rose Bowl victory.

Since declaring for the draft, Strange has been ranked as a mid-round tight end, with the potential to be a three-down talent. His ability to block for runs and passes gives him major upside.

While his footwork, technique, and pass-catching ability may be in need of improvement, getting to work within the right organization and for the right coaches could allow Strange to flourish.

According to NFL Mock Draft Database, Strange is currently projected to hear his name called sometime on day three of the draft in round six or seven. Although he may be a late-round draft pick, Strange could provide immediate impact to a team in the right circumstance.