Studwell was drafted by the Vikings in the 9th round of the 1977 draft out of Illinois. He is the Vikings all-time leading tackler with 1,981 in his 14 season career (1977-90). He ranks as 1 of only 5 Vikings to have played 200 games for the franchise. He holds team records for single-season tackles with 230 in 1981 and 24 in a game against Detroit in 1985. He led the Vikings in tackles in 8 seasons, 1980-85, '88, '89.

Studwell was selected to 2 consecutive Pro Bowls (1987 and 1988). He was also selected as a member of the Vikings 25th and 40th Anniversary season teams. He was inducted into the Vikings Ring of Honor on November 29, 2009. He has worked in Vikings front office and college scouting from 1991-present, giving him 40 consecutive years of service to the club.