Carson Schwesinger’s Unlikely Journey: From Walk-On to NFL DROY Favorite
Carson Schwesinger’s rise to becoming a Defensive Rookie of the Year (DROY) favorite is marked by determination and hard work. The Cleveland Browns middle linebacker, a former walk-on at UCLA, is expected to accept the DROY award soon, although he expresses discomfort with the spotlight.
Early Life and High School Journey
Schwesinger grew up in Southern California and began playing football at a young age. He initially attended a small K-12 school where he played on a conventional team. After the program transitioned to an eight-man football setup, he transferred to Oaks Christian High School, known for producing NFL talent.
High School at Oaks Christian
- Notable alumni include NFL players Michael Pittman Jr., Zach Charbonnet, and Kayvon Thibodeaux.
- Coached by Charlie Collins, Schwesinger developed a strong work ethic.
Despite potential, Schwesinger faced recruiting challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted his senior season. He received only one partial scholarship offer from Bucknell but ultimately aimed for a chance at UCLA.
UCLA: The Walk-On Journey
At UCLA, Schwesinger was brought in as a preferred walk-on. Initially skeptical about his place on the team, his confidence grew after a few practices. He switched from safety to linebacker and redshirted his freshman year.
Becoming an Asset
- Scholarship awarded before his sophomore season.
- Contributed mainly on special teams and as a defensive backup.
With a coaching change resulting in DeShaun Foster’s promotion, Schwesinger’s hard work began to pay off. In his junior season opener, he recorded multiple tackles and a pivotal fumble, eventually earning recognition as one of the top defensive players.
NFL Draft and Rising Star
Schwesinger’s impressive college career led to his selection by the Cleveland Browns in the second round of the NFL Draft. The circumstances of his recruitment aligned with opportunities on the team, particularly following injuries to key players.
Impact on the Browns
- Initially drafted as a backup, he became the green-dot linebacker, responsible for defensive calls.
- Notable performance includes intercepting quarterbacks and maintaining a strong presence in the game.
During his rookie season, he participated in 16 games, showcasing outstanding abilities that earned him respect within the league. He recorded significant statistics including 156 total tackles, 2.5 sacks, and multiple interceptions.
Overcoming Adversity
Schwesinger faced a significant injury—a high ankle sprain—but demonstrated resilience by returning to the field ahead of schedule. His readiness underscored his commitment to his team.
Acknowledgment and Future Prospects
As he prepares to potentially accept the DROY award, Schwesinger remains humble, focusing on team success rather than individual accolades. His parents, who have supported him through every step of his journey, celebrate his achievements. Schwesinger is poised to continue impacting the NFL as he grows in his profession.
