SI All-American Candidate Gus Zilinkas Highlights and Evaluation
Prospect: Gus Zilinkas
Status: SI All-American candidate
Vitals: 6-foot-3, 263 pounds
Position: Defensive Tackle/Fullback
School: Englewood (Colo.) Cherry Creek
Committed to: Rutgers
Projected Position: Defensive Tackle
Frame: Smaller, stout frame for a defensive line, but has room to add more weight and reach 280-285 pounds relatively quickly.
Athleticism: Violent at point of attack and continues throughout the snap. He prides himself on the physical aspect of things, and he is effective on both sides of the ball doing so.
Instincts: He knows he is not the biggest lineman on the field, so he uses his leverage to his advantage to gain traction, and he plays relentlessly. Motor should translate regardless of alignment at the next level.
Polish: Has room for improvement in overall technique, but if his on-field play is any indicator of his off fieldwork ethic then, he has the potential to make an impact at the next level. Leverages well against bigger offensive linemen, and as his overall frame fills out, he should see an increase in production.
Bottom Line: Zilinskas is an undersized lineman who is relentless at the point of attack and plays from snap to whistle. He uses his hands and leverage to his advantage, but he has to add more weight and improve his lower body technique to take the next step at the college level.