Hunter Zambrano, OT, Texas Tech
Size:
Height: 6’5” | Weight: 300 lbs
Accomplishments:
Second-Team All-MVFC (2023)
“Hunter Zambrano has the football character and natural ability to be a long-time NFL lineman.”
Strengths:
NFL-level ability as a pass protector
Demeanor to play at the next level
Solid hands in both phases
Good athletic foundation
Concerns:
Technically raw in the run game
Needs to add more to pass set repertoire
FCS product
Film Analysis:
Hunter Zambrano was an overlooked recruit coming out of University High School in Florida. Zambrano took over full-time starting duties last season at Illinois State where he displayed the talent and skill set necessary for NFL football. Looking at this season, Zambrano has a chance to be the highest-drafted Illinois State lineman in school history.
The one common variable for Zambrano through every won or lost rep was that this is a guy I could go to war with. He absolutely gets after people in both phases. There’s an understanding of the mentality, attitude, and resilience required to play on the offensive line.
In pass protection, Zambrano showcases all of the uncoachables necessary to be effective at the next level. He does a great job of setting to different alignments as well as being conscientious of any gap exchanges from the defensive line. He’s a patient pass-setter who never looks to be in a hurry. At the point of attack, Zambrano consistently hit the correct landmarks with his hands to neutralize rushes.
Where Zabrano needs to make up ground in his protection is showing an improved anchor and showcasing more confidence in his set. Despite his athletic ability and strengths in protection, Zambrano has much more he can add to his arsenal to prove to evaluators he can make the jump from FCS football to the pros.
The run game is where Zambrano struggled the most. His playside footwork as a zone blocker will need to be reworked. Specifically, getting Zambrano out of the habit of position blocking will be the biggest step forward in improving his run blocking. What I’d like to see is for Zambrano to displace defenders rather than simply just sealing a gap. Zambrano more than made up for his technical deficiencies throughout games with an unmatched strain and fight. Time after time you’d see Zambrano finishing blocks like a professional.
Looking at his role in the NFL, Zambrano will have the opportunity to showcase his versatility through all-star games and team workouts. Checking the box of being able to play multiple positions would help Zambrano’s stock significantly.
When I watch Zambrano play football, I see a guy who knows what this game is supposed to look like. Even accounting for his technical issues and the question marks around his level of competition, Zambrano leaves no doubts about his football character or willingness to win. That attitude, combined with his talents as a lineman, should make Zambrano a sought-after late-round selection.
Prospect Projection: Day 3 — Scheme Specific Contributor
