Chazz Surratt Bio
Chazz Surratt (born February 16, 1997) is an American professional football linebacker currently playing for the New York Jets in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he began his career as a quarterback before transitioning to linebacker. Surratt was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Early Life and Background
Chazz Surratt was born in Lincolnton, North Carolina. He attended East Lincoln High School in Denver, North Carolina, where he gained recognition as a talented quarterback. During his high school career, Surratt led the East Lincoln football team to victories in the 2012 2A and 2014 2AA North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) state championship games. He was a two-time first-team Associated Press (AP) All-State selection and set the state record for most career touchdowns with 229. In his senior year, he was named the North Carolina AP Offensive Player of the Year and received accolades as a Parade All-America and Parade National Player of the Year.
Path to American Football
After high school, Chazz Surratt was recruited by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to play quarterback. He redshirted during his first season in 2016 and was named the starting quarterback in 2017. However, Surratt faced challenges with inconsistency and injuries, limiting his appearances that season. Following a suspension at the start of the 2018 season, he became a backup quarterback. In 2019, with the arrival of head coach Mack Brown and a new quarterback roster, Surratt made the pivotal decision to switch to linebacker. This transition proved successful, as he had a standout season, earning first-team All-ACC honors.
Chazz Surratt Career
Early Career (2021)
Chazz Surratt was drafted in the third round as the 78th overall pick by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2021 NFL Draft. He entered his inaugural training camp competing for a starting inside linebacker position. Although he was named a backup linebacker behind established players, Surratt finished his rookie season playing in nine games, primarily on special teams without any defensive snaps. His performance during the preseason raised concerns about his fit in the team’s defensive scheme, leading to his release from the Vikings in August 2022.
New York Jets (2022 – Present)
On September 1, 2022, Chazz Surratt signed with the practice squad of the New York Jets. He later signed a reserve/future contract on January 9, 2023, solidifying his position with the team. Surratt continues to develop his skills and contribute to the Jets’ defensive lineup as he progresses in his professional career.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Chazz Surratt has achieved notable recognition, including being named a first-team All-American in 2020 and earning first-team All-ACC honors twice in 2019 and 2020. His transition from quarterback to linebacker has been a defining moment in his career, showcasing his adaptability and talent on the field.
Chazz Surratt Award Nominations
Chazz Surratt has received several nominations and accolades throughout his career, including recognition as a first-team All-American and multiple All-ACC selections.
Chazz Surratt Awards Won
Surratt has won significant awards during his college football career, including being named a first-team All-American in 2020 and receiving first-team All-ACC honors in both 2019 and 2020.
Chazz Surratt Family
Chazz Surratt has a younger brother, Sage Surratt, who was an All-Conference wide receiver at Wake Forest University. While details about his parents and other family members are not publicly available, the Surratt family has shown a strong commitment to athletics.
Personal Life
Information regarding Chazz Surratt’s personal life, including marital status and children, is not publicly disclosed. However, his family background and his brother’s achievements in football highlight a supportive environment that fosters athletic talent.
