He played his college football at Purdue University and won the inaugural John Mackey Award in 2000.
He compiled 38 catches for 380 yards (10.0 avg) and 7 touchdowns his freshman year while finishing second nationally among tight ends in all three categories.
He was given Honorable Mention All-Big Ten and he was subsequently named to the Sporting News freshman All-American team.
His junior year was followed by 56 receptions for 579 yards (10.3 avg) and two touchdowns, being named First Team All-Big Ten, named to the BCS All America Team and winning the inaugural John Mackey Award, given to the nation's top tight end.
In his senior year, Stratton caught 47 passes for 423 yards (9.0 avg) and two touchdowns from Kyle Orton, Brees' successor as Boilermaker quarterback.