Syracuse Football: Orange pick up potential diamond in the rough prospect

The Syracuse football squad may have uncovered a diamond in the rough on the recruiting trail. Here are all the details on this talented prospect.

The Syracuse Football coaching staff has been back on the road this past week and is looking to fill up the remainder of the scholarships for the 2019 class. In doing so, defensive coordinator Brian Ward stumbled upon a kid that has a chance to earn a scholarship, but will still be a pivotal addition.

Zack Magdis a Linebacker/Tight End from Worcester Academy in Massachusetts has committed to Syracuse as  a Preferred Walk-On. According to his HUDL, Magdis is 6-foot-2 and weighs 226 pounds.

Very good size for a linebacker at the division one level. His versatility make him a valuable asset and his 4.5 40-yard dash speed means he is sure to be a contributor on special teams during his time at SU.

"Magdis sat down with Syracuse.com’s Stephen Bailey to discuss his decision to come to Syracuse. He notes how Syracuse Defensive Coordinator Brian Ward, “said all the right things to me” and “he (Ward) would be a man I want to play for the next 4-5 years of my life.” According to the article, Syracuse also offered Magdis’ teammate, Kevon Darton a PWO."

In addition to his PWO offer from Syracuse, Magdis also had a PWO offer from Hawaii and offers from FCS schools LIU, Central Connecticut State, and Rhode Island.

He announced his commitment via twitter:

Let’s take a look at his tape:

The first play that jumps out to me occurs at the :44 second mark of the film. This kid is a big time football player. He plays the game the right way and is a hard worker and this play is no different. He is lined up at outside linebacker and is on the line of scrimmage. The opposing team calls a run play to his side and the fullback looks to block Zack. He takes on the blocker and is still able to bring down the ball carrier for a short gain. If Magdis is really 6-foot-2 and 226 pounds with a 4.5 40, he definitely has a chance to compete and earn playing time at linebacker.

At the 1:53 mark of the film, Magdis is covering a slot receiver, further showing his versatility. His team’s defensive scheme on that particular play is a zone coverage scheme. Magdis does a nice job of bumping the slot receiver to slow him down, and then does a great job of reading the quarterback’s eyes and reacting to where the ball is thrown. He comes up and makes a nice hit on the player in the flat stopping him in his tracks. In Syracuse’s defensive scheme it is imperative for linebackers to cover pass catchers.

Magdis is also fairly developed as a pass catcher on offense. At the 2:43 mark of the tape he shows off his route running and speed. He is lined up in the slot on offense and runs a slant route over the middle of the field. He catches the ball in stride, showing no fear of getting hit over the middle. After the catch he shows off his straight line speed and impressively, takes it to the house for a 30-yard touchdown.

Magdis is a very solid player to bring in as a walk-on. His measurables are that of a division one player and his diversity and ability to play different positions makes his a valuable player. If nothing else, I see Magdis becoming a very good special teams player at Syracuse.