Player: Zach Tom

School: Wake Forest

Height and Weight: 6’5”, 295

Combine Results:

• 40: 4.94
• Bench: DNP
• Vertical Jump: 33”
• Broad Jump: 9’10”
• 3 Cone: 7.32
• 20 Yard Shuttle: 4.47
• Other Notes: Tom had a really strong combine, as his test numbers rank toward the top in this year’s lineman class. 

Strengths: Run blocking, mobility- game more predicated on speed than power, pretty technically sound

Weaknesses: Inconsistent feet, wide base at time, power rushers, a bit undersized

Projected Draft Day: Mid-Late Day 2/Early Day 3

Player Comparison: Justin Pugh

Player Summary: Zach Tom is listed as center and I’ve heard he’s played some guard, but the film I watched was at tackle. At 295 Tom is a bit undersized for any of the offensive line spots, and will need to bulk up but at his current weight would probably be best suited for an interior line spot, particularly center. Tom is a strong run blocker who’s play strength is predicated more on his speed and mobility, and overall is pretty technically sound.

On the flip side, Tom’s lower body seems to be the spot of most of his weaknesses. Tom doesn’t have the best footwork you will ever see, but it’s not terrible either; it can certainly use some work. One of the other issues I have with him in pass protection, which I think stems from the inconsistent foot work, is that on his kick slide he can end up with too wide of a base sometimes. This issue can create a shift in his center of gravity, and cause balance issues.

Overall, I really like Tom as a prospect, I think that he’s a nice mix of ready to play and upside. I think he will be a quality value pick in the mid rounds. I genuinely think that he can go into training camp and fight for a day one starting spot. If he loses, it will be valuable time for him to learn from his coaches and the veterans and have time to bulk up. With his 5 spot versatility, he will also be a nice backup on the bench.