McKenrick repeats as OAC’s top linebacker

John Carroll’s Mason McKenrick closed out his college football career in impressive fashion Nov. 20.

The Mentor graduate was a repeat winner of the Gene Slaughter Award, which is given to the top linebacker each season in the Ohio Athletic Conference.

The senior linebacker finished the season with 67 tackles, eight for loss. He also had 3.5 sacks and two interceptions, one of which he returned 68 yards for a touch- down.

“I’ve always tried to remain humble with awards,” said McKenrick. “Of course, I set goals for myself, but the most important thing is to help the team win games. Personal awards will follow.”

McKenrick also earned a repeat spot on the all-OAC first team.

Up next for McKenrick is putting in work for a chance to play at the next level.

Nov. 20 was the first day McKenrick began working with trainer Tim Robertson at Robertson’s Chester Township-based Speed Strength Systems facility.

McKenrick, who is 6-foot4, is working to improve his 40-yard time (he’s recently been timed at 4.6 seconds) and agility while putting on a few pounds to get to 230. He’s currently about 220 pounds.

He’s already received interest from the NFL. Last week, a Broncos scout visited JCU to watch film of McKenrick.

“That was pretty exciting,” said McKenrick about the Broncos visit.

McKenrick was also invited and will play in a The Dream Bowl, a showcase game for non-FBS draft hopefuls. It’s scheduled for mid-January in Virginia Beach, Va.

Joining McKenrick on the all-OAC first team were tight end Danny Disbrow, defensive lineman Conner Bogard (Benedictine) and offensive lineman Drew Turner (Mayfield native).

JCU second-team picks were running back Ro Golphin (Gilmour), kicker Matt Danko and defensive linemen Adam Thompson and Jimmy Thomas.

Honorable mention picks were receiver Brian Kornowski and defensive lineman Tyler Fredrick.