Broncos Draft Prospect: Zach Zenner, RB, SDSU
By Tylor Walden
Aug 30, 2014; Columbia, MO, USA; South Dakota State Jackrabbits running back Zach Zenner (31) runs the ball against the Missouri Tigers during the first half at Faurot Field. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Gary Kubiak and the Denver Broncos plan on bringing a new offense to the team. The zone-blocking scheme could be one that gets the Broncos over the top. With C.J. Anderson slated to lead the way in the running back competition, it would not be a bad idea to bring in another one to increase the competition. Zach Zenner could be that spark for the offense.
Zach Zenner comes from South Dakota State University, a Division II school. So, there is not a whole lot of media attention surrounding the school, but South Dakota State has a talented player going into this draft in Zach Zenner. This could be a player that the Broncos could show some interest in on day three of the draft.
Let us take a look at what Zach Zenner brings to the table.
His height sticks out to me. He is just a tick under six feet, but it seems that he uses his height to his advantage. But what really impresses me is the speed that is in his possession. He can cut quickly and get down field in a hurry. He ran the 40 yard dash in 4.6 seconds, which is not bad at all. Once he gets his top gear going in the running game, he will outrun anyone on the field.
He can also help in the passing game. He has a knack to adjusting to the football while in the air and making the catch. The same speed shows in the passing game to once he has enough space. Another great attribute to Zach Zenner is his hands, as displayed in the graph above. He uses them to create separation from the defender by way of the stiff arm. He performs probably some of the best stiff arms I have ever seen.
The only thing I could see Zach Zenner working on as far as weaknesses is his pass blocking. He does not often square up and would rather hit from the side than take the defender head on. That is something that teams could help him out with, so it is not a huge issue.
I believe that he will fit in well with the Broncos. Zach Zenner could come in as a special teams player as well as a third down/change of back player that can spell C.J. Anderson if needed. He could be a great sixth or seventh round pick for the Broncos.