BEREA — The Cleveland Browns drafted Michigan offensive guard Zak Zinter with the 85th pick of the 2024 NFL draft. Zinter, a 6-foot-6prospect who spent four years with the Wolverines, was the fifth offensive guard off the board. Here's what Browns fans need to know about Zinter and our instant analysis of the pick.
The Browns boast arguably the best guard combination in the NFL in a pair of Pro Bowlers in Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller . However, Bitionio's 32 and Teller is 29, which means finding a suitable heir was right in the team's wheelhouse. That's what makes the pick of Zinter a smart one, even with him coming off the horrific leg injury he suffered against Ohio State last November. He has some time to develop and adjust while learning behind two of the best in the sport.
Zinter was one of the most respected players on Michigan's national championship team last season. Before breaking his leg against Ohio State last November, he had played in every game for the Wolverines during their three-year run as Big Ten champions and a playoff participant. He appeared in 45 games, with 42 starts, all at right guard. He was a first-team All-American as a senior last year.
Zinter checked in at the NFL combine in February at 6-foot-6, 309 pounds.
Chris Easterling can be reached at ceasterling@thebeaconjournal.com. Read more about the Browns at www.beaconjournal.com/sports/browns. Follow him on X at @ceasterlingABJ
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Browns pick Michigan's Zak Zinter in Round 3 of draft. Expert analysis
