Draft Scouting Report:

Rating: 80.80 (Long-term starter)

Pro Comparison: Neville Gallimore

Accolades:

  • 2022: Voted MVP of South Carolina's defense
  • Combine: Top four among DT in broad jump, 3-cone and shuttle

Summary:

Zacch Pickens is a former five-star recruit who flashed at times, but would've liked to see him play with more consistency. That said, when he's on, he's a disruptive middle-of-the-defense player who regularly gets into the backfield, either forcing the RB to bounce the play outside or getting the QB off his spot on passing downs.

Strengths:

  • Explosive off snap when lined up over the center; can quickly win leverage battle early in rep, push the pocket
  • Stout vs. double teams
  • Good lateral movement for size; will run down plays on perimeter
  • Active hand in pass rush, can push pocket with power; even when he doesn't get to QB, always gets hands up

Weaknesses:

  • Not much of a pass-rusher but high-motor player who plays through whistle
  • Only had three sacks in 2022 after logging five in 2021, but improved in hurries, batted balls and hits on the QB
  • A former five-star recruit who flashed at times, but would've liked to see him play with more consistency.

Combine Results:

  • 40-Yard Dash: 4.89 seconds
  • Vertical: 30.5 inches
  • Broad Jump: 9 feet, 8 inches
  • 3-Cone Drill: 7.45 seconds
  • Shuttle Run: 4.62 seconds
  • Bench Press: 22 reps