Welcome to the 2020 FCS Jersey Countdown.
Throughout the May-August months, HERO Sports is going to name the best returning FCS player by jersey number, 99-1. Due to rosters being updated at different times for teams across the country and to keep things consistent, jersey numbers are based on the 2019 season.
The full 99-1 countdown/schedule can be found here.
*Note: Jersey numbers are based on 2019 rosters.
44: Jared Brinkman, DL (Sr.) — Northern Iowa
Brinkman is as strong as they come on the interior of a defensive line. At 6-foot-2 and 290 pounds with a 525-pound bench press, the Iowa City native has been a key part of UNI’s elite defense. And there’s plenty of Panther pride for Brinkman. His dad and uncle played linebacker for UNI.
Brinkman has the size and strength to eat up blocks. The former high school heavyweight state champion wrestler also has the agility to be extremely productive.
He finished fourth on the team last year with 83 total tackles along with 14.5 tackles for loss, seven sacks, five quarterback hurries and three forced fumbles. Brinkman earned All-MVFC Second Team honors for his play.
He has developed into one of the top defensive linemen in the FCS. Brinkman enters 2020 as a preseason HERO Sports Second Team All-American.
