FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in March. Here’s a look at Michigan offensive guard Zak Zinter.
2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Zak Zinter
Zak Zinter (OG – Michigan)
6’6″ – 322 lbs.
Background:
Zak Zinter has played right guard his entire collegiate career. Started four games for Michigan as a freshman in 2020 (left one after nine snaps), then took over the full-time role the following year, allowing one sack in 13 starts. Allowed two sacks in 14 starts in 2022, while reprising his right guard role this year.
Positives:
Massive offensive guard with over three seasons of starting experience at a highly-respected program. Plays with the technique, awareness and consistency you’d expect given his pedigree/experience. Shows a solid understanding of positioning. Above-average short-area quickness to chip and climb; regularly engages two defenders on a single play. Has some experience pulling to the left side of the formation and cracking defenders, and the team often ran behind him on such concepts. Does a nice job of lining up opponents in space without compromising his technique. Can hear the pads clicking on contact; has some leg churn to grind down opponents with good functional strength. Works through the whistle to sustain. Has good grip strength and hand placement to stay connected. Pass protects with a solid base and some knee bend. Big frame and length make him difficult to get around. Length allows him to get good separation in pass protection and he can reset his hands effectively. Anchors well against power. Keeps his head on a swivel to seek out help opportunities.
Negatives:
Temperament is a bit more workmanlike than nasty. Pad level can be higher than you’d like as a tall player. Above-average athlete at guard but not one of the rangiest options available; more of a phone-booth body-mover. Minor instances where he gets out in front of his toes, leading to balance issues. Not the most laterally-quick pass protector. Can have some trouble against explosive gap-shooting types. Occasionally gets put on his heels at the beginning of a pass rep, although he recovers well.
Summary:
A big, tough, smart and experienced gap-scheme guard who plays with the polish and consistency you’d expect. He should be one of the top guards off the board, offering a relatively known quantity with a high floor. May not be the most athletic interior option in the class, which may reduce his appeal to some teams with zone-heavy offenses, but is capable of executing some climbing or pulling assignments. Looks like a future starter.
Projection: Round 3
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