UNC Football: High praise for Tar Heels senior lineman Jason Strowbridge

The UNC football program was well-represented at the 2020 Senior Bowl, as Tar Heels senior defensive end Jason Strowbridge surprised onlookers with his speed and skill.

University of North Carolina senior defensive end Jason Strowbridge continues to impress onlookers with his speed, athleticism and overall feel for the game of football. He was lauded for his performance at Senior Bowl practice last week, as well as the ensuing game that took place on Saturday.

Between scouts and coaches, the number of folks catching on to Strowbridge’s potential at the next level is increasing. A staff writer for the Tampa Buccaneers recently critiqued the players that participated at last week’s Senior Bowl festivities, naming Strowbridge one of the event’s top performers.

"“. . . another pleasant surprise was the North team’s Jason Strowbridge from the University of North Carolina,” Carmen Vitali of Buccaneers.com said. “I’m not sure anyone helped his draft stock more than Strowbridge. A pretty unknown prospect coming into Mobile, Strowbridge looked like a man among boys. His one-on-ones were a joy to watch. His hands were good, and his speed was even better. Strowbridge also made plays on the ball, recording multiple pass breakups at the line in practice. He consistently won all week against good talent.”"

The 6-foot-5, 285-pound lineman had a terrific senior season in Chapel Hill that saw him compile a career-high 45 tackles  — including 27 solo tackles — 6.5 tackles for loss, three sacks and an Atlantic Coast Conference-best three fumble recoveries. He also blocked two kicks, one pass defended and a forced fumble. He was subsequently named a third team All-ACC selection.

He’s also been selected to participate in the 2020 State Farm All-Star Football Challenge at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. If Strowbridge performs as well at the All-Star event as he did at the Senior Bowl, it’ll be interesting to see how much more his draft stock rises. With a good showing there, and at the upcoming NFL Scouting Combine, he could work himself into a very favorable draft position by the time the NFL Draft rolls around in late April.

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