Bryan Bresee, a defensive lineman out of Clemson, was taken by the New Orleans Saints with the 29th choice in the first round of the NFL Draught on Thursday night.
It wasn’t really shocking that Bresee was chosen. The defensive lineman, who stands 6 feet 5 and weighs 298 pounds, was frequently considered as a potential choice for the Saints late in the first round.
Over the course of 25 games played over his three years at Clemson, Bresee recorded 51 tackles and nine sacks.
Here are five things about Bresee that you should be aware of:
Bryan Bresee was an excellent hire.
After graduating from high school in Damascus, Maryland, he was regarded as the best recruit in the country. Among a long list of offers, Bresee selected the Tigers over Georgia, Alabama, and Auburn. With 134 tackles and 35 sacks at the end of his prep career, he was twice chosen to the first team of USA Today All-Americans.
At Clemson, Bryan Bresee struggled with injuries.
Bresee’s 2021 season was cut short after four games due to an ACL tear. In 2022, he played in just 10 games due to a renal ailment that sent him to the hospital following a severe attack of strep throat.
He started 21 of his 26 collegiate games.
There was no indication, though, that any of his prior medical difficulties would hinder him in the NFL during the examination phase.
Bryan Bresee made a strong collegiate debut.
Bresee was honoured as the ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year during his first year at Clemson.
He recorded four sacks, a forced fumble, two pass breakups, and a safety during the 2020 season. He started 10 of the 12 games he appeared in.
The Athletic, ESPN, and Rivals all recognised him as a Freshman All-American.
Tragic events drive Bryan Bresee.
Bresee’s 15-year-old sister passed away from cancer in September.
At the time of her passing, Ella Bresee was facing an aggressive type of brain cancer.
“I am positive that heaven has welcomed a lovely angel today. Love you always, Ella bear,” Bresee said on Twitter on September 15.
During the Furman game last year, Clemson players and staff members wore “Ella Strong” shirts. Bresee returned to the pitch and honoured his sister with a performance during a victory over Wake Forest.
Bryan Bresee has excellent athletic ability for a DT.
Bresee is remarkably speedy for an interior lineman, clocking a 40-yard dash time of 4.86 seconds in the NFL Draught. He also had a 10-yard split time of 1.71 seconds and a 29-inch vertical leap. He had a limited collegiate career due to injuries, but he has the opportunity to grow even more in the NFL.