Tight end-defensive end who also played basketball and baseball as a North Carolina prep. Redshirted in 2007. Played all 13 games in ’08, starting six, and recorded 18 receptions for 201 yards (11.2-yard average) and four touchdowns. Started 11-of-12 games in ’09, catching 40-422-6 (10.6). Was arrested in April ’10 and charged with misdemeanor maintaining a dwelling for the purpose of using a controlled substance — police found marijuana in Bryan’s apartment where four players were smoking. Started 9-of-13 games in ’10, snagging 35-369-3 (10.5). In ’11, recorded 33-331-4 (10.0) in 13 starts at tight end. Team captain.

Outstanding size with long arms. Physical in-line blocker — matches with defensive ends and flashes some nasty. Functional short-area receiver — has strong, reliable hands and shows concentration to catch in traffic. Can find a spot in zone coverage and move the chains. Fights after the catch and does not go down easily. Well-respected, hardworking, vocal leader. Smart and durable.

Marginal foot speed. Tight-hipped and unsudden — limited explosiveness and hip snap. Is not overpowering despite his size and needs to improve his upper-body strength. Bends at the waist and misses some blocks. Heavy feet inhibit ability to sustain blocks. Borderline-adequate release quickness. Rigid route runner — lumbers into patterns and lacks gear change or agility to separate. Marginal run-after-catch ability. 

Competitive, big-bodied, line-of-scrimmage throwback type who could develop into a decent No. 2 given his blocking ability, playing temperament and intangibles. Slow play speed is concerning but will catch what comes his way.