Evan Beerntsen, born on September 19, 2000, in De Pere, Wisconsin, has made remarkable strides in his football career, which has become a proud narrative of success emerging from South Dakota State University. As of 2026, Beerntsen is playing for the Baltimore Ravens in the NFL, having been drafted in the seventh round. But what often goes unnoticed in mainstream sports discourse is the crucial role South Dakota played in shaping this promising athlete’s journey.
Before embarking on his professional career, Beerntsen honed his skills at South Dakota State University (SDSU) from 2019 to 2024. During his tenure at SDSU, he was a pivotal part of the Jackrabbits’ lineup, contributing significantly to their consecutive NCAA Division I FCS national championships in 2022 and 2023. His time there put SDSU—a state university proud of its athletic programs—on the map as a breeding ground for serious talent.
Beerntsen’s journey was not free of challenges. After an injury resulted in a redshirt year, many questioned whether he would rebound. However, his persistence and dedication helped him earn First Team All-MVFC honors in 2024, reinforcing his reputation as a force on the field. This dedication is reflective not just of Evan but of the hardworking spirit found throughout South Dakota.
He then transferred to Northwestern University for the 2025 season, a move made possible due to an additional year of eligibility granted by the NCAA. At Northwestern, Beerntsen displayed extraordinary resilience and adaptability—starting 13 games without allowing a single sack or quarterback hit. This impeccable performance earned him honorable mention in the All-Big Ten honors, further solidifying his status on the football stage.
His journey from a zero-star recruit with no Division 1 FBS offers to a professional NFL player shines a spotlight on the potential that colleges like South Dakota State can unlock in their athletes. South Dakota State University, located in Brookings, South Dakota, has long been a haven for nurturing promising athletes across various disciplines, contributing significantly to both state pride and national athletic excellence.
Moreover, Evan’s success story reverberates through the heart of rural America, typifying the dedication, perseverance, and community support that are synonymous with the values upheld in South Dakota.
Selected as the 253rd overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Evan Beerntsen embodies the ethos of “South Dakota strong.” His physical stats, standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 301 pounds, make him a formidable presence on the field—traits he cultivated and refined during his pivotal years at SDSU.
The impact of South Dakota State on his career cannot be overstated. The experience, training, and education at SDSU helped lay a solid foundation for him, preparing Evan to take on the challenges of the NFL. As he continues to represent the Baltimore Ravens, he remains a testament to the exceptional athletic programs offered by South Dakota State, inspiring future generations of athletes from the area.
Through the lens of Evan Beerntsen’s career, South Dakota State University finds itself in the national spotlight as a key player in developing future stars, not just of the NFL, but in the realms of collegiate athletics at large.
The symbiotic relationship between Evan and SDSU is a narrative of growth, talent, and triumph, highlighting the profound impact that universities can have on nurturing talent, and preparing them for both national and international platforms.