Zion Tupuola-Fetui is a name that has been consistently labeled as one to watch but his only true
breakout year was during the COVID-shortened 2020 season when Tupuola-Fetui had 13 tackles, seven tackles for loss, seven sacks, three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery in just four games.
He was named to the All-Pac-12 first team that year, the All-America Second Team by The Athletic, and the All-America Third Team by the Associated Press.
The following year he tore his Achilles during spring ball and ultimately missed seven games, to which he hasn't been the same since.
In 2022, ZTF—as he's commonly referred to—had 28 total tackles, 5.8 tackles for loss 4.5 sacks, and one force fumble. In 2023, he had 29 tackles, five for loss, 3.5 sacks, and a forced fumble.
ZTF finishes his collegiate career with 89 tackles, 18.5 for loss, 16 sacks, five forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery.
Strengths
- Has good size and frame for an NFL edge rusher
- Had good acceleration before Achilles injury
- Quick to disrupt the backfield
- Disruptor with his hands.
- Converts speed to power.
Weaknesses
- Loss of acceleration after Achilles injury, whether caused by physical or mental limitations.
- Shows tight hips which limits his bend.
- Can play high with his hands, limiting functionality.
The 6'4" 254-pound sixth-year senior likely won't be a starter at the next level but will certainly be a strong rotational player who can play on the line of scrimmage and dropback into coverage.
Grade: Day 3