With the 16th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, the Arizona Cardinals draft Zaven Collins, linebacker out of Tulsa. Collins, a big, versatile linebacker joins a Cardinals team that is clearly going all in. After winning the J.J. Watt sweepstakes and bringing in A.J. Green on offense, this team is clearly making moves to not only play in January, but be one of the best. Let’s look at what Zaven Collins brings.
Zaven Collins Highlights
Zaven Collins NFL Draft Profile and Stats
Zaven Collins
Position: Linebacker
Height: 6’4″
Weight: 260 lbs
Age: 21
College: Tulsa Golden Hurricanes
Zaven Collins 2020 Stats
Tackles: 54
TFLs: 7.5
Sacks: 4.0
FFs: 2
INTs: 4
Passes Defensed: 2
Zaven Collins Draft Profile
Strengths
Zaven Collins is freakishly athletic for how big and long he is. He has the movement of the NFL’s new smaller, hybrid linebackers. However, he also has the skill set of a top edge rusher when getting after the quarterback. Due to his length and athleticism, Collins is also great in coverage, getting his big mitts in throwing lanes.
Weaknesses
Collins really should be a better tackler than he is, though this is a skill he can clearly improve upon. He also has the strength to take linemen on head up, but he tries to be more of a finesse rusher. While Collins is an elite talent in this draft, will not be a fit for all defenses. He needs to be a scheme-specific draft pick.
RELATED | Full Zaven Collins NFL Draft Profile, Highlights and Stats
What to Expect From Zaven Collins in 2021
This Cardinals defense could be nasty. Zaven Collins is capable of being a Day 1 starter, playing alongside Isaiah Simmons, J.J. Watt and Budda Baker. Yikes. He is a massive human that players like a safety in coverage. That description should remind you of Hall of Fame linebacker Brian Urlacher. Collins is a disruptor who will contribute immediately. Watch out for the Cardinals defense this season.
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