The chess match that’s NFL roster constructing usually hinges on discovering gamers who carry extra than simply uncooked expertise to the desk.
For the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs, cornerback Trent McDuffie has embodied this ultimate, turning into a cornerstone of their protection by his outstanding versatility and soccer intelligence.
As draft season heats up, an intriguing parallel has emerged from the evaluation of one of many NFL’s insiders.
Albert Breer just lately highlighted a prospect who may carry that very same uncommon mixture of abilities and intangibles into the subsequent degree.
“Final 12 months, I wrote that Duke C Graham Barton was the ‘Trent McDuffie’ of the 2024 class […] I believe North Dakota State OL Gray Zabel is that man this 12 months,” Breer wrote. “He can begin at 4 of 5 line positions, is hard and good, and will turn out to be a workforce captain whereas nonetheless on his rookie contract.”
The comparability speaks volumes about Zabel’s potential impression.
Breer suggests the versatile lineman might hear his identify known as as early because the twelfth decide by the Dallas Cowboys, and certain gained’t slide previous the Seattle Seahawks at 18, a testomony to how extremely groups worth his ability set.
Zabel’s school resume backs up the hype. He anchored an offensive entrance that dominated the FCS degree, main the nation in dashing throughout 2023 and securing championships in each 2021 and 2024.
His performances on the Senior Bowl and NFL Mix solely strengthened his case, showcasing the athletic instruments that permit him to excel throughout a number of positions.
What makes the McDuffie comparability notably apt isn’t position-specific traits however fairly the intangibles each gamers carry.
McDuffie’s distinctive mix of soccer IQ, adaptability, and reliability has made him invaluable to the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs’ defensive schemes.
Scouts consider Zabel might provide related flexibility to an NFL offensive line.
