Zak Zinter Scouting Report

By: Michael Higgins

(Image courtesy of G Fiume/Getty Images)

School: Michigan

Class: Senior

Position: OG

HT: 6’6

WT: 322 lbs

Sideline Prospect Ranking: #40

Background: Zak Zinter is a lineman that played all over the offensive line throughout prep schools. For his high school years, Zinter attended two separate prep schools. Originally from Florida, Zak and his family moved to Massachusetts before he started high school. He was a 4-star interior offensive lineman playing his final season of high school football at Nichols Prep School. He led St John’s Prep School to a New England championship. He was ranked as the best prospect in Massachusetts and was twice named first team all-state. He also holds the school record in the shot put. Zinter committed to Michigan over Notre Dame and Boston College.

College: Zinter made four starts at right guard for Michigan as a true freshman in 2020. He also was a contributor on special teams. In both 2021 and 2022 he started every game and was one of the best interior offensive linemen in the country. In 2022 he was a consensus first team All-Big 10. He is a three time Academic All-American as well. Zinter was a unanimous First Team All-American selection in 2023. He was also a consensus All Big 10 First Team. Using resume and talent alone, one could jump to the conclusion that Zinter is the best guard in the draft. Unfortunately, Zinter suffered a gruesome leg injury towards the end of his stint at Michigan. This injury has raised questions about his health and how effective he can be after recovery.

Strengths: Zak Zinter is a mauler in the run game. He plays with a ferocious willingness to finish his assignment and looks to embarrass the opponent. Zinter flashes when moving out in space. He gets out of his stance quickly and becomes a wrecking ball going through the defense. Even on the move, he consistently gets his hands on the pads of the defender to finish a block. He is a strong player and shows that with his ability to finish. Zinter has a firm foundation in pass protection, anchoring himself at his spot and not allowing rushers to knock him off that base.

Weaknesses: The biggest red flag on Zinter’s profile is that nasty injury. Every player reacts differently to that kind of injury and it will be a bit of a risk to take him. His movement skills were never necessarily a strength of his. Now he will have to work that much harder to improve upon his movement and speed. His technique has shown flashes of dominance, but he does get caught lacking and gets beaten if he is not completely technically sound.

Conclusion: Despite the injury, Zinter is incredibly well rounded and polished as a prospect. He has leadership qualities and has always put the team first. He will be an excellent locker room presence and just as impactful on the field.

Scheme Fit: Zone Rushing Offense

Ideal Role: Right Guard

Best Team Fits: MIA, PIT, BAL

Player Comparison: Kevin Zietler

Player Grade: 84.4