Arizona Cardinals Alternate Logo

Zaven Collins

Zaven Collins Player Profile

Summary

Zaven Collins was selected in the 1st round (16th overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals. Arizona Cardinals He played college football at Tulsa, where in 2020 he won the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, Chuck Bednarik Award, and Lombardi Award as the nation’s top defensive player.KOCO In his NFL career so far, Collins has been durable and productive: per the Cardinals, he’s played in 67 of a possible 68 games through 2024, with 223 tackles, 10.5 sacks, 13 pass deflections, 3 forced fumbles, and 2 interceptions. Arizona Cardinals Known for his rare size/length, sideline‑to‑sideline speed, and three‑down versatility, Collins combines physical traits with a strong football IQ, leadership, and a high motor. Athlon Sports

Strengths

  • Elite Size + Length + Athleticism: At 6′4″ with long arms, he pairs plus length with surprising fluid movement. Athlon Sports

  • Sideline-to-Sideline Range: He can cover a lot of ground in both run and pass – he’s effective in space. SI

  • Run-Game Disruption: Uses burst to shoot gaps, tackle behind the line, and make TFLs. SI

  • Pass Coverage Versatility: Effective in shallow zones; can match up against tight ends or running backs given his size and agility. SI

  • Playmaker / Ball Skills: In college, he made interceptions, defended passes, and scored defensive touchdowns. Bleeding Green Nation

  • Motor & Competitiveness: Constant effort, habits of hustle, and a non-stop engine. Athlon Sports

  • Character / Leadership: Highly respected for his work ethic and leadership, with a strong personal story. KOCO

  • Versatility: Can play as a 4‑3 off‑ball linebacker, strong-side edge, or in multiple fronts. SI

Weaknesses

  • Pass-Rush Counter Skills: While he has some pass-rush upside, his hands and counter moves need refinement. Athlon Sports

  • Run‑Fit Discipline: At times, he has taken suboptimal angles or tried to run around blocks rather than engaging and shedding. Athlon Sports

  • Over‑Aggression Risk: His aggressiveness can lead to over‑pursuit, especially in play-action or misdirection.

  • Size vs Power Blockers: Though long and athletic, he may be challenged by very strong, physical blockers at the point of attack.

  • Snap Efficiency: Given his usage and athletic style, there may be fatigue or consistency issues when he's asked to do a lot every game.

  • Limited Elite Pass‑Rusher Burst: He’s more of a three‑down linebacker than a pure edge threat — not a “pure sack-only” type in his current role.

Fit & Outlook

  • Fit:
    Zaven Collins is best suited to a defensive scheme that values three-down linebackers who can contribute in run defense, pass coverage, and occasional blitzes. He fits very well in both 4‑3 and 3‑4 fronts, especially as a Sam/Will or even a hybrid “edge linebacker” because of his length and mobility. Defenses that deploy linebackers in space and ask them to defend tight ends, running backs, or drop into zones will maximize his strengths. His size and range also make him valuable in sub-packages where size matters but coverage ability is still needed.

  • Outlook:
    Collins has a high ceiling if he continues to refine his technique and play recognition. He has already shown he can stay healthy and be a consistent starter. If he develops better hand technique for pass rushing and improves his block‑shedding, he could emerge as one of the more complete linebackers in the league. His floor is strong — a reliable, versatile linebacker who can contribute heavily in run defense and in coverage. Given his character and physical traits, he also has the potential to be a long-term leader on defense.