"[1] He considered playing in junior college when the secondary coach from Boise State University suggested he enroll there, but as a walk on with no scholarship.
[19][20] He received his second consecutive first-team All-WAC honor and was named the Most Valuable Defensive Player on a Boise State team that compiled a perfect 14-0 record.
In the August 2010 issue announcing its pre-season picks, a photograph of Winterswyk and two other players appeared on the magazine's cover.
His rapid ascent embodies the Boise State program, which in 15 seasons has risen from I-AA to serial BCS buster.
"[27] In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Winterswyk credited the players who laid the foundation for Boise State's development and noted his desire to meet expectations: "You don't want to be on the cover of SI and then go blow it all.
[3][32] He started all 12 games at defensive end for Boise State and received his third consecutive first-team All-WAC honor.
Winterswyk was also a finalist for the Burlsworth Trophy, given to outstanding college football players who began their careers as a walk-on.
[34] Winterswyk was signed by the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent following the 2011 NFL draft on July 27, 2011.