DBB’s 2025 Draft Favorite #3: Grey Zabel, IOL, North Dakota State
Grey Zabel is one of those linemen who just gets it. He’s played all over the offensive line in college four different positions, in fact but he lined up at left tackle in 2024. At the next level, though, he’s built to be a guard. He’s quick on his feet, stays balanced, and doesn’t let defenders get the best of him, even if they get into his chest thanks to his shorter arms. And when it comes to run blocking? This dude loves to hit people and finish plays.
NFL.com’s Daniel Jeremiah thinks Zabel could start from Day 1, and it’s easy to see why. He had a strong Senior Bowl, impressed at the combine, and has a gritty, no-nonsense style of play that coaches love.
Now, is he a top pick for the Bears? Probably not in the first round, but don’t rule him out in the early second. He wouldn’t need to start right away he’d give the team solid depth, then likely step into a starting role by 2026. But hey, if he shows out in camp, maybe he forces the team to shuffle things around and make room for him sooner.
One scout summed him up perfectly: “Not the cleanest prospect, but our coaches love his toughness.” That’s the kind of guy you want in the trenches.
Meet DBB’s No. 3 Draft Darling: NDSU’s Grey Zabel Holding Down the Line
