All Rookies
GZIOL
ARIRound 5 · Pick 171·C·Rutgers

Gus Zilinskas

NFL Team
Cardinals
Round
5
Pick
#171
Position
IOL

The Pick

Overview

Gus Zilinskas arrives in Arizona Cardinals as a Day 3 starter projection out of Rutgers. His C skill set fits a defined role in the Cardinals's 2026 rotation, with upside dictated by his college tape and the situation he walks into.

The Tape

Strengths

  • Reliable interior blocker
  • Three-year starter at Rutgers
  • Smart pre-snap recognition

Areas of Concern

Weaknesses

  • Average athlete in space
  • Reach blocks need work

What He Brings

Team Fit

Cardinals adds IOL rotational talent with Gus Zilinskas. The fit makes sense given roster needs and his Rutgers background.

Year One

Immediate Role

Depth piece and ST contributor.

The Ceiling

Long-Term Upside

Backup guard.

For Fantasy Managers

Fantasy Outlook

Indirect impact — boosts run game efficiency.

Pro Comp

NFL Comparison

"Power-oriented interior blocker"

Bottom Line

Scouting Summary

OL depth for the Cardinals.

Same Class

More Cardinals Rookies

Made with Emergent