Rivals250 DL Joe Strickland Goes In-Depth On Michigan, Mike Macdonald, More

EJ: Before we dive into recruiting, how has the offseason been going for you?

JS: It’s been going great. I didn’t do basketball this year, so I had way more time to train with (Robert) Mathis and in the weight room. I’ve been in the weight room a lot lately. I was on spring break this last week, but there was a weight room five minutes from where I was staying, and it had everything I needed. I did sandpits down there, too. Really, I’ve been lifting and getting my numbers up. It’s just that and school.

EJ: The first time I saw you was last summer. It looks like you’ve added some good weight since then.

JS: (Laughs) A lot of people are saying I look bigger. But since you saw me last summer, I actually dropped weight. I played during the season at 260. Now, I’m around 253. But I’ve been trying to lean out. This is the lightest I’ll be in 10-15 years if I go to the league. Coaches have talked to me about 265. The highest is 285. You know, a 285 guy that can move. If they can get me up to that weight and keep my athleticism, so be it.