2021 NFL Draft: Grading every first-round pick after rookie year

Grading every rookie from the 2021 NFL Draft: Zaven Collins, LB, Arizona Cardinals

2021 Stats:

• 25 Tackles
• 3 Pass Defenses

Tulsa linebacker Zaven Collins was easily one of the more intriguing prospects in the 2021 NFL Draft. He played the linebacker position but was built like a defensive lineman at 6-foot-4 and 260-pounds.

During his three seasons with Tulsa, Collins had 23 tackles, 7.5 sacks, and five picks. His final season was shortened due to COVID-19 but he had his best campaign with the team, recording 54 tackles, four sacks, and four interceptions while running two of them back for touchdowns.

Even with his play that season, it was a bit of a surprise to see him go 16th overall, especially since the Cardinals already had Isaiah Simmons who they took in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft, and veteran Jordan Hicks.

In 2021, those were the primary starters and Hicks kept Collins from getting on the field much. Hicks finished 116 tackles — after having 118 in 2020 and 150 in 2019 — which is why Collins ended up with just 25 in spot duty.

Looking forward to this season, Hicks was released meaning Collins should be the starter. He played well when given a shot but we still don’t know enough about him to call the pick a win.

Grade: C+