Our rookie scouting reports combine film and analytics to provide the best possible predictions for player performance. With the 2023 NFL Draft less than a month away, let’s take a look at the scouting report for NC State OL Chandler Zavala.
Chandler Zavala NFL Draft Profile
- Position: Offensive Lineman
- School: North Carolina State
- Year: Sixth-Year Senior
Zavala was a zero-star recruit out of Forest Park High School in Woodbridge, Virginia. In the absence of being recruited, Zavala signed up to play college football at Fairmont State, a Divison II school.
The lack of college interest in Zavala is no surprise. He didn’t even start playing football until his senior year in high school. Being able to play at the college level at all, even DII, is an accomplishment in and of itself.
As a freshman, Zavala only appeared in three games. But he improved quickly. In his sophomore and junior years, Zavala was named first-team All-Mountain East Conference.
After his fourth season in 2020 was canceled due to COVID, and having gained valuable experience and skill, Zavala wanted a chance to prove himself at a larger program. He was successful in that goal, earning a spot a North Carolina State, where he transferred ahead of the 2021 season.
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Zavala was immediately given a starting job, and he performed well, allowing no sacks and just four QB pressures in five games. Unfortunately, he only played five games as a back injury ended his season prematurely.
Following the 2021 season, Zavala was out of years of eligibility. While he only played three games as a freshman at Fairmont State, the NCAA had not yet implemented the rule enabling players to qualify for redshirt status if they only played in four games. As a result, Zavala had to apply for a special medical exemption.
Initially, the NCAA denied his request. However, on appeal, he was granted a sixth year of eligibility.
Zavala returned to NC State for one final season in 2022. He started 13 games and didn’t allow a single sack while giving up just four QB pressures.
Tony Pauline’s Scouting Report for Chandler Zavala
Strengths: Nice-sized offensive lineman who shows athleticism. Quickly gets into blocks, fluidly gets to the second level, and plays to his 40 time. Stays square, keeps his feet moving, and anchors in pass protection. Explosive at the point, turns defenders from the line, and gets after blocks. Usually blocks with proper knee bend and leverage. Keeps his head on a swivel and always looks for someone to hit.
Weaknesses: Late with his hands on occasion. Really doesn’t finish blocks. Must be more consistent with his anchor in pass protection, as he often gets knocked off the line of scrimmage.
Overall: Zavala flashed ability throughout his college career, and after a solid performance during Shrine Bowl practices, he turned in a terrific pro day workout. He comes with upside and should definitely get practice-squad consideration this fall.
Chandler Zavala Pro Day Measurements and Results
- Height: 6’3″
- Weight: 322 pounds
- Arm Length: 32 3/4″
- Hand Size: 10 3/8″
- Bench Press: 30
- 40-Yard Dash: 5.01
NC State OL Chandler Zavala Current Draft Projection
On Tony Pauline’s Big Board, Zavala ranked 575th overall and is projected to go undrafted. With a 2.96 grade, he is Pauline’s 43rd guard prospect in this class.
Based on Pauline’s grade, Zavala is well outside the 224 base number of picks in every draft. Even accounting for compensatory picks, there will be nowhere near 300 players drafted, let alone 500+.
MORE: 2023 NFL Draft Big Board
Given Pauline’s grade and projection, it is a near certainty that Zavala will not get drafted. As a UDFA, he will face quite the challenge of making an NFL roster. Even amongst guards projected to go undrafted, Pauline has 24 graded above Zavala.
It would be a pretty significant upset if Zavala ever made an NFL roster. His best path to the league is likely earning a starting role in one of the Spring leagues, should they continue, and showcasing his skills with the hopes that an NFL team is impressed enough to give him a shot.