Carson Schwesinger’s journey from unranked walk-on to First-Team All-American linebacker at UCLA is one of college football’s most inspiring stories. The 6’2″, 242-pound defensive standout has become the heart of the Bruins’ defense, earning national recognition in the 2024 season. This comprehensive profile examines Schwesinger’s background, physical attributes, remarkable college career, NFL draft prospects, personal life, and future potential.
Carson Schwesinger’s Age & Early Life
- Full Name: Carson Schwesinger
- Age: 22 years old (estimated, based on typical redshirt junior status)
- Hometown: Westlake Village, California
- High School: Oaks Christian School
- Major: Bio-Engineering at UCLA
Schwesinger entered UCLA as an unranked walk-on in 2021, showing the determination that would define his career. His academic pursuit of bio-engineering demonstrates his intellectual discipline alongside athletic prowess.
Physical Attributes & Measurables
| Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’2″ (1.88 m) |
| Weight | 242 lbs (110 kg) |
| Arm Length | 31 5/8″ (0.80 m) |
| Hand Span | 9 1/4″ (0.23 m) |
| Vertical Jump | 39.5″ (1.00 m) |
| Bench Press | 20 reps |
| 40-Yard Dash | (Estimated 4.65-4.75) |
Schwesinger’s elite vertical jump (top 1% for linebackers) and compact, powerful frame give him exceptional range and hitting power.
College Career at UCLA (2021-Present)
The Walk-On Journey
- 2021: Joined team as unrecruited walk-on
- 2022: Earned scholarship after spring practices
- 2023: Became rotational player (27 tackles, 3 TFLs, 1 sack)
- 2024: Breakout All-American season
2024 Breakout Season Stats
| Game | Tackles | TFL | Sacks | INT | PD | Notable Plays |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nebraska | 13 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 2 | Game-sealing PBU |
| Iowa | 7 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 1 | Pick-six |
| [Other Key Game] | [Stats] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [Highlight] |
2024 Accolades:
- First-team All-American
- First-team All-Big Ten
- Big Ten Defensive POTW (Week 11)
- Butkus Award Semifinalist
- Burlsworth Trophy Semifinalist (top walk-on)
NFL Draft Projection (2025)
Scouting Report
Strengths:
✔️ Elite football IQ and diagnostic skills
✔️ Exceptional range for size (39.5″ vert)
✔️ Violent, technically sound tackler
✔️ Coverage versatility (2 INTs in 2024)
✔️ Proven leadership (team captain)
Areas for Improvement:
❌ Average arm length (31 5/8″)
❌ Can improve pass-rush moves
❌ Limited starting experience prior to 2024
Draft Outlook
- Projection: 5th-7th Round (Priority UDFA if undrafted)
- Potential Fits:
- San Francisco 49ers (LB development system)
- Pittsburgh Steelers (tradition with tough LBs)
- Seattle Seahawks (special teams value)
- NFL Comparison: Alex Anzalone (Lions)
Personal Life
Family & Academic Pursuits
- Parents: Names undisclosed (California residents)
- Siblings: Unknown
- Academic Focus: Bio-engineering major showing intellectual discipline
Relationships
- Girlfriend: No public information
- Off-field Interests: Combines football with STEM interests
Financial Profile & Future
- Current Net Worth: 75K−150K (NIL deals limited by walk-on status)
- NIL Opportunities:
- UCLA-focused endorsements
- Underdog story partnerships
- NFL Earnings Potential: 750K−1.2M rookie deal
Lifestyle
- Current Residence: UCLA athlete housing
- Car: Modest vehicle (consistent with walk-on roots)
- Training Focus: Improving explosive power
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How did Schwesinger become an All-American?
Through relentless work ethic, mastering defensive schemes, and elite athletic testing.
2. What makes him an NFL prospect?
Elite vertical athleticism, proven production against top competition, and special teams value.
3. Which NFL teams need a LB like him?
Teams valuing high-IQ defenders (49ers, Steelers, Seahawks).
4. What’s his draft ceiling?
Could rise to Day 3 with strong pre-draft workouts.
5. How good was his 2024 season?
All-American honors with game-changing plays vs. Nebraska/Iowa.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Underdog Story
Carson Schwesinger embodies college football’s best values – perseverance, intelligence, and gradual mastery of craft. While his NFL future may be as a special teams standout/developmental linebacker, his UCLA transformation proves he’ll maximize every opportunity. Scouts will love his athletic testing, leadership, and walk-on grit – qualities that often lead to surprising NFL success.