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Anthony Zettel arrived at Penn State in 2011 as a four-star defensive end prospect, selecting the Nittany Lions over two Big Ten schools in his home state — Michigan and Michigan State. Since then, Zettel has added muscle and moved to the interior of the line where he will play primarily in his final season with the Nittany Lions.
Zettel was a First Team All-Big Ten selection in 2014, recording eight sacks and 17 tackles for a loss. The redshirt junior also contributed in other ways, securing three interceptions, most notably a 40-yard interception of J.T. Barrett that was taken for a touchdown in the Nittany Lions’ heartbreaking overtime loss to Ohio State — the eventual national champions.
Versatility is a sought-after attribute in a prospect and there are few who bring more to the table than Anthony Zettel. The 6-foot-4, 274-pound tackle has experience on the perimeter and would fit into into a 3-4 scheme, and it’s even being said that Zettel could also be asked to drop weight to play outside linebacker. He wouldn’t be the first Nittany Lion to move from the second level, with the Kansas City Chiefs‘ Tamba Hali being the most significant example in the last decade.
Zettel’s play last season in the interior suggests that might be where he would play in the NFL. His footwork and frame make him an ideal candidate for the position. A solid showing in 2015 should boost him into the first round next spring and the versatility that he displays makes him an even more attractive candidate. Zettel is also playing against potential NFL competition in the Big Ten as the conference often sends great lineman — both offensively and defensively — to the next level.
Expect Zettel’s name to be one of the first 32 called next April.
Jason Shawley is a Featured Writer for www.RantSports.com covering Big Ten Football. Follow him on Twitter @jshawls.
