Chazz Surratt

Classroom

Surratt graduated early with a Bachelors of Arts in Exercise and Sport Science, Sport Administration and is now working on his master’s degree in business aministration at UNC. He is focusing on Leadership Development.

Character

Chazz Surratt exudes a quiet confidence. As a highly touted high school quarterback, he spent years working relentlessly to perfect his craft. While there are few things Surratt doesn’t excel at, he’s still faced his fair share of adversity during his time at UNC. Two lackluster seasons at quarterback and a season-ending wrist injury would be enough for most 20-year old student-athletes to hang up their cleats. Instead, Surratt met these challenges head-on with perseverance, strength and grit.

Surratt returned after surgery with a renewed sense of determination and appreciation for the sport that he loves. Beyond his sheer athleticism, he has a keen understanding of the game. It was obvious the team lacked experience and depth at linebacker, and a position switch could not only help the team, but also provide him a better opportunity to play professionally. Surratt approached the coaching staff and volunteered to switch positions just four short months before the start of the season. During this time, he solidified his reputation as the hardest working individual in the program. He trained every day, often times twice a day. Surratt made up his mind—what he lacked in experience he would make up for with his unparalleled work ethic.

Surratt’s decision to switch positions speaks to his maturity, selflessness and respect for his team. While his overwhelming success in his new position has propelled him to being one of the best linebackers in the country, it’s his hard work, determination and character that will keep him successful.

Community

Surratt makes routine visits to the UNC Children’s Hospital on Friday’s before a game day. It’s a long-standing tradition of the program.

Competition

A preseason All-America selection, Surratt began the season listed on nearly every major defensive award watch list. They include the Bednarik, Butkus and Nagurski Awards. Surratt has led the Carolina defense in tackles and sacks through five games. He has beennamed ACC Linebacker of the Week twice during the 2020-2021 season so far, and was the Chuck Bednarik Award National Player of the Week in September.

As a junior in his first season at linebacker, Surratt was an All-ACC first team selection and runner-up for ACC Defensive Player of the Year honors. He led Carolina and ranked second in the league with 115 tackles.