Jace Sternberger Bio
Jace Evan Sternberger is an American professional football tight end for the Birmingham Stallions of the United Football League (UFL). Born on June 26, 1996, in Kingfisher, Oklahoma, he excelled in football during high school and played for several colleges, including Texas A&M, where he was named a consensus All-American in 2018. Sternberger was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft and has since played for multiple teams in the NFL and UFL.
Early Life and Background
Jace Sternberger was raised in Kingfisher, Oklahoma, where he attended Kingfisher High School. He played various positions in football, initially starting as a quarterback before transitioning to tight end after a shoulder injury during his sophomore season. His versatility on the field was complemented by his experience in basketball, where he played power forward. As a junior, he was part of the state championship team that achieved a perfect 14–0 record. In his senior year, he recorded 42 receptions for 390 yards and eight touchdowns, showcasing his talent and potential as a football player. Sternberger received scholarship offers from several colleges, ultimately choosing to enroll at the University of Kansas as part of head coach David Beaty’s first recruiting class.
Path to American Football
During his time at Kansas, Jace Sternberger took a redshirt in 2015 and had limited opportunities in 2016, recording only one reception for five yards over ten games. This lack of playing time prompted him to transfer to Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, where he had a breakout season in 2017, making 21 receptions for 336 yards and six touchdowns. His performance attracted attention from several programs, leading him to commit to Texas A&M University. In 2018, he had an impressive season, earning midseason All-America honors and being named a semi-finalist for the John Mackey Award. He finished his college career with 48 receptions for 832 yards and 10 touchdowns, tying the school record for most touchdowns by a tight end.
Jace Sternberger Career
Early Career (2019-2021)
Jace Sternberger was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He signed his rookie contract on June 10, 2019, but began his professional career on injured reserve. He was activated on November 2, 2019, and scored his first NFL touchdown during the NFC Championship Game against the San Francisco 49ers. However, his career faced challenges, including a two-game suspension in 2021 for violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy. After being waived by the Packers, he signed with the practice squads of the Seattle Seahawks and the Washington Football Team before joining the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Breakthrough (2023-Present)
In January 2023, Jace Sternberger signed with the Birmingham Stallions of the United States Football League (USFL). He quickly made an impact, helping the team win the USFL championship in 2023 and leading the league in receiving touchdowns that season. His performance earned him a spot on the All-USFL Team. After a brief stint with the Buffalo Bills, he returned to the Stallions and was named to the 2024 All-UFL Team, solidifying his status as a key player in the league.
Notable Works and Milestones
Jace Sternberger’s signature achievements include being a UFL champion in 2024 and a USFL champion in 2023. He also led the USFL in receiving touchdowns in 2023 and was recognized as a member of the All-USFL Team. His college accolades include being named a consensus All-American in 2018 and earning First-Team All-SEC honors.
Jace Sternberger Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Jace Sternberger has received several nominations and honors, particularly during his college years, where he was recognized for his outstanding performance on the field.
Jace Sternberger Awards Won
Jace Sternberger has achieved notable success, including winning the UFL championship in 2024 and the USFL championship in 2023. He has also been recognized as the USFL receiving touchdowns leader and a member of the All-USFL Team.
Jace Sternberger Family
Jace Sternberger was born to parents Jason and Jackie, both of whom were college athletes. His mother, Jackie, was a standout basketball player at Southwestern Oklahoma State University. He has a son born in 2021 with his longtime girlfriend, Tayla Janae.
Personal Life
Jace Sternberger has a close bond with his family, and he honors a childhood friend who passed away from brain cancer with a tattoo on his arm. He has lived in Clinton, Oklahoma, for part of his youth, where he formed lasting friendships. Sternberger’s commitment to his family and friends is evident in his personal life, as he balances his professional career with his responsibilities as a father.