Penn State’s Brenton Strange declares for NFL draft, will play in Rose Bowl

Two weeks ago, Brenton Strange acknowledged he had a “life-changing decision” on his hands: come back to Penn State for the 2023 season or declare for the NFL draft.

“I haven’t really made any decisions yet,” Strange said at Penn State’s Rose Bowl media day at Beaver Stadium. “But I’d expect a decision to come soon.”

On Tuesday night, the Nittany Lions’ standout tight end announced his decision. Strange, who will play in the Rose Bowl, declared for the 2023 NFL draft.

“I couldn’t be more thankful to have called State College home for the last four years,” Strange wrote in a statement. “Since my arrival in 2019, I have grown tremendously on and off the field. I’m truly blessed to be a part of the Penn State community.”

#WeAre Forever ???? pic.twitter.com/ul2YNsSIta

— Brenton Strange (@BrentonStrange) December 28, 2022

Strange is the fifth Penn State player to declare for the NFL draft since the end of the regular season, joining cornerback Joey Porter Jr., wide receiver Parker Washington, center Juice Scruggs and defensive end Nick Tarburton.

Strange proved to be one of the most well-rounded tight ends in the Big Ten, recording 32 catches for 362 yards and five touchdowns this year. Though his production waned as the season progressed, Strange ranked eighth overall among draft-eligible tight ends, according to Pro Football Focus. He improved his drop rate and his blocking consistency, setting himself up for a future in the NFL.

Strange said he received draft feedback ranging from the second to fourth round, which is difficult to pass up.

Before he leaves, Strange will play a significant role in his final collegiate game. Utah will be missing its top receiving target, tight end Dalton Kincaid. Strange, Theo Johnson and Tyler Warren, meanwhile, will provide Sean Clifford with plenty of options over the middle of the field, especially without Washington.

The Rose Bowl kicks off at 5 p.m. Monday. It will air on ESPN.