North Dakota State Bison football Poised with Heavy Profile Revamp Amid Imminent Transfer Possibility

April 3, 2025 Nero Scoffield College Sports 0

If the Broncos want to take an offensive lineman early, then Grey Zabel is going to be near the top of their list.

Could the Broncos Target OL Grey Zabel in the Draft?

While the Denver Broncos are unlikely to prioritize an offensive lineman early in the draft, it’s always worth considering all possibilities. If they were to select one on Day 1, North Dakota State’s Grey Zabel would likely be the top choice.

Zabel stood out throughout the Bison’s season and made a significant impact at the Senior Bowl, where his dominant performance in both the run and pass game propelled him up draft boards. His physicality was unmatched by most, and it’s clear he comes from a program built on a strong rushing attack.

A two-time FCS national champion, Zabel started 41 games at NDSU—including 36 consecutive to close out his college career—while playing four different positions along the offensive line. He capped off his senior year by earning First Team All-American honors, helping the Bison rush for an impressive 3,337 yards in 2023.

Player Profile

  • Name: Grey Zabel

  • Position: Offensive Line

  • School: North Dakota State

  • Height: 6’6”

  • Weight: 312 lbs

  • Hands: 9 ½ inches

  • Arm Length: 32 inches

  • Age: 22

  • 40-Yard Dash: 5.3 seconds

  • Vertical Jump: 36 ½ inches

  • Broad Jump: 9’3”

Film Room

Scouting Report

Strengths:

  • Versatile, capable of playing multiple positions along the offensive line

  • Brings a physical, aggressive mindset to run blocking, similar to Quinn Meinerz

  • Surprisingly athletic and mobile for his size

  • Excels in the run game with strong blocking technique

  • Works effectively with teammates on double teams

  • Shows good vision in pass protection and effectively picks up blitzes

Weaknesses:

  • Struggles at times with pad level

  • Lacks the speed to excel as a tackle, making him a better fit on the interior

What Analysts Are Saying About Grey Zabel

NFL Draft Buzz

Zabel stands out as a technically sound lineman who plays with controlled aggression. His footwork, hip drive, and natural leverage in North Dakota State’s run-heavy scheme should translate well to the NFL interior. Watching him execute combo blocks and reach the second level is reminiscent of Zack Martin’s early days at Notre Dame—though not as explosive, he demonstrates a similar mastery of angles and timing.

YardBarker

Zabel’s ability to play all five offensive line positions makes him an appealing prospect for NFL teams. However, his physical limitations and occasional technical inconsistencies are better suited to an interior role. If he adds some bulk, he could improve his anchor and develop into a quality starter at guard or center, with the versatility to step in at tackle if necessary.

Final Thoughts

If the Broncos are aiming to upgrade their offensive line in the first round, Grey Zabel would be an ideal choice. His skill set aligns perfectly with Sean Payton’s offensive scheme, making him a strong candidate to eventually replace Ben Powers once his contract expires.

That said, Denver is unlikely to address the offensive line this early in the draft. A move for an interior lineman is more probable on Day 3, meaning Zabel—who is almost certain to be off the board well before then—will likely be out of reach.

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