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Zyon McCollum

Zyon McCollum Player Profile

Summary

Zyon McCollum was selected in the 5th round (157th overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Tampa Bay Buccaneers He played his college football at Sam Houston State, where he was a two-time First‑Team All‑Southland Conference and later First‑Team All-WAC. In the NFL, as of 2024/2025, McCollum has accumulated over 170 total tackles, 27 passes defended, and 2 interceptions according to Pro Football Reference. ESPN.com Known for his excellent athletic profile (including elite combine metrics), his competitiveness, and physical style in coverage, McCollum has developed into a physical, ascending starter in Tampa Bay’s secondary.

Strengths

  • Athleticism & Speed: McCollum posted extremely strong testing numbers, including a reported sub‑4.40 40-yard dash, giving him excellent range for a corner. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Size & Length: At 6′2″ and ~199 lbs, he offers a long, athletic frame that helps in matchups with bigger receivers. ESPN.com

  • Coverage Instincts / Zone Play: Known for his ability to read routes, find leverage, and make plays in zone; he displays good anticipation. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Ball Skills: McCollum can track the ball well in the air, close on it quickly, and make plays on contested passes. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Run Support / Physicality: He is willing to tackle in the run game, flows to the ball, and isn't afraid to mix it up with bigger runners. NFL Draft Buzz

  • High Motor & Competitiveness: Evaluators highlight his relentless nature, effort on every snap, and leadership qualities. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Special Teams Upside: Given his athleticism and explosiveness, McCollum has potential value on special teams early in his career. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Coverage Versatility: He has the type of skill set to play both outside and potentially in the slot, giving defensive flexibility. NFL Draft Buzz

Weaknesses

  • Tackling Technique: Some scouts note inconsistency in wrap-up tackling; he can be overly aggressive but lose form. NFL Draft Buzz

  • High Pad Level / Hip Stiffness: At times, McCollum plays too upright or high-hipped, which can limit his ability to change direction fluidly. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Press Coverage Limitations: He lacks a dominant release or initial punch in press situations, making him vulnerable to jam at the line. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Strength Development Needed: While athletic, he needs to add functional strength to handle physical NFL receivers and bigger outside threats. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Technique vs Top-Level Routes: Against polished route-runners, his footwork and redirecting can look less refined; he may not always mirror elite receivers perfectly. NFL Draft Buzz

  • FCS to NFL Transition Risk: Coming from a smaller school (Sam Houston State) posed questions during the draft about his level of competition. Texas Football

Fit & Outlook

McCollum projects very well as a starting boundary cornerback in an NFL defense that values size, length, and athletic upside. He is well-suited to a scheme that blends zone and man coverage, allowing him to use his range, instincts, and ability to read the offense. In nickel packages, his versatility and coverage ability would also be valuable, and he can contribute significantly on special teams while continuing to grow as a CB1 or CB2.

Looking ahead, McCollum’s outlook is bright. He has already earned more playing time and responsibility with the Buccaneers, and his contract extension (per reports) indicates confidence in his development. As he continues to refine his technique — especially in press coverage and tackling — he has the potential to become a dependable starter. His excellent athletic traits give him a high ceiling, while his physicality and work ethic provide a solid floor. If he stays healthy and continues improving, McCollum could evolve into a long-term piece of Tampa Bay’s secondary core.