2023 NFL Draft: Zack Kuntz Scouting Report
Following a stellar career at Camp Hill School in Pennsylvania, four-star recruit Zack Kuntz opted to stay in-state and play for the Penn State Nittany Lions, a program renowned for developing professional tight ends. However, Kuntz saw limited action in his time there. In his freshman season in 2018, he caught one pass for eight yards. The following campaign, Kuntz primarily played on special teams while registering two catches for 18 yards.
Kuntz then transferred to Old Dominion following the Covid-shortened 2020 season. In 2021, Kuntz excelled in his first season with the Monarchs, as he caught 73 passes for 692 yards and five touchdowns. For his efforts, Kuntz was named first-team All-Conference USA. However, following an injury-derailed senior season, Kuntz has entered the 2023 NFL Draft. With his size and athleticism for the position, Kuntz has the potential to become a serious offensive mismatch at the next level.
Strengths
- Extremely athletic for his size – former high jump and hurdles champion
- Has outstanding size with the ability to line up all over the field and create mismatches
- Uses his lateral quickness, footwork and flexibility to create separation from defenders
- Instinctive player who is adept at finding the soft spots in coverage
Weaknesses
- Minimal run after the catch skills – has trouble making defenders miss
- Limited playing experience – only registered 15 career collegiate starts
- Must improve his run-blocking,
- Needs to get stronger and fill out his incredibly long frame
NFL Comparison: Mike Gesicki
Best Fits for Zack Kuntz: Atlanta Falcons, Los Angeles Rams, Jacksonville Jaguars, Las Vegas Raiders
Projection: Round 5-6
Bottom Line on Zach Kuntz
Kuntz is likely going to serve on a practice squad for a year or two as he continues to develop as a tight end. He is a raw prospect who has potential to make great strides due to intangibles and pure athleticism. Moreover, he is also only 23-years old, making him a highly malleable player for any coaching staff who selects him. His mere 15-start university career is the biggest knock against Kuntz, as learning the speed of football while at the fastest level is extremely difficult. He might as well be earning a PhD before getting a Master’s degree.
While teams will need to be patient with Kuntz’s development, prospects with his physical traits and athleticism are rarely found at the later stages of the draft. Overall, Kuntz has significant potential to excel in the NFL as a receiving tight end who has the ball skills, athleticism, and frame to exploit mismatches as a player who plays more like a big receiver.
Main Image: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
