Few players have made as significant an impact as Grey Zabel during the Senior Bowl practices. The North Dakota State offensive tackle has showcased remarkable versatility, having played every position along the Bison line at various points in his college career. His strong performances have certainly caught the attention of scouts, who are always on the lookout for talent that can adapt and thrive in different roles.
Why Versatility Matters in the NFL
In the world of college football, finding consistent offensive linemen can be a daunting task. Teams are increasingly valuing players who can switch positions seamlessly, especially in a league where injuries can derail a season in an instant. Zabel’s ability to play multiple roles on the line adds significant value to his draft stock. While he is a powerful run blocker with impressive size and strength, his arm length (32.25 inches) is slightly shorter than what is typically desired for a tackle. This limitation suggests that he may be better suited for an interior lineman role in the NFL.
Impressive Senior Bowl Performance
Zabel’s performance in Mobile has been nothing short of impressive. His strong showing has led many to speculate that he could be drafted as early as the first round. With the NFL Draft on the horizon, it’s time to explore some potential landing spots for this talented offensive lineman.
Top 5 landing spots for Grey Zabel in the NFL Draft
#5. New England Patriots
The New England Patriots have a bright future with their quarterback of the future in place. However, the team must now focus on providing him with the necessary tools to succeed. The offensive line ranked last in run-blocking in 2024, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF), and their pass protection wasn’t much better. While the Patriots should target a top playmaker with their third overall pick, enhancing their offensive line should be a priority with subsequent selections. Grey Zabel could serve as a solid building block, offering the versatility to plug him in wherever help is needed.
#4. Miami Dolphins
In 2024, the Miami Dolphins faced significant challenges on the offensive line. Guards Liam Eichenberg, Isaiah Wynn, and Robert Jones struggled to perform effectively in the interior. With center Aaron Brewer still in his prime, adding Zabel to the mix could provide a much-needed foundation. Tua Tagovailoa’s injury history is well-documented, making it essential for the Dolphins to bolster their protection up front. Additionally, head coach Mike McDaniel prioritizes the running game, which struggled at times due to a lack of space in the middle. Zabel’s prowess as a run blocker makes him an ideal fit for Miami.
#3. Houston Texans
The Houston Texans are in a promising position with young quarterback CJ Stroud and a supporting cast that includes Nico Collins, Joe Mixon, and Tank Dell. However, their offensive line is in desperate need of an upgrade. Stroud was sacked eight times in the Divisional Playoff loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Texans struggled to create running lanes for Mixon, who only managed to rush for over 100 yards once in his last six games, including the playoffs. Grey Zabel could significantly enhance both the running game and pass protection on the interior line.
#2. Chicago Bears
No team surrendered more sacks than the Chicago Bears in 2024. With Caleb Williams entering his second season and Ben Johnson stepping in as the new head coach, the Bears must prioritize keeping their franchise quarterback clean to foster his development. Chicago needs help at every position on the offensive line, making Zabel’s versatility a tremendous asset. His consistency as a blocker could provide a solid foundation for the Bears to build upon.
Last year, the Bears focused on skill position players to shape their offense. In 2025, the emphasis should shift towards strengthening the offensive line.
#1. San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers faced a disappointing season in 2024, failing to make the playoffs after a Super Bowl appearance. Their offensive line requires younger talent to rejuvenate the unit. With tackle Trent Williams considering retirement and guard Aaron Banks likely to depart via free agency, the fit for Grey Zabel is almost perfect. Few teams run the ball as effectively as the 49ers, and Zabel excels as a run blocker. He possesses the raw power that would be welcomed in San Francisco’s run-heavy scheme. Despite last season’s setbacks, the 49ers have the personnel to contend for a title, and adding strength to their offensive line could be a significant step in the right direction.
Looking Ahead
As the NFL Draft approaches, Grey Zabel’s stock continues to rise, and his versatility makes him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to bolster their offensive lines. His impressive performances at the Senior Bowl have set the stage for what could be a pivotal moment in his football career. With the right landing spot, Zabel could become a key contributor in the NFL, helping to protect quarterbacks and pave the way for running backs. The excitement surrounding his potential is palpable, and fans will be eager to see where he lands in the upcoming draft.
