Zach Pianalto Scouting Report

Zach Pianalto could have been considered one of the best tight end prospects in the 2011 class had it not been for a rash of injuries that have hampered his collegiate career. Even as a freshman in 2007, Pianalto started eight games and finished fourth on the team with 24 receptions for 204 yards. Those numbers took a hit in 2008. Pianalto only started two games and made a mere seven appearances due to fracturing his fibula. In those seven games, Pianalto only made seven catches for 69 yards and a score.

The 2009 season ended up being Pianalto's most productive. Despite missing five games with a foot injury, the 6-4 tight end set a school record for tight ends with 33 receptions. Those 33 receptions went for 334 yards and one touchdown. However, just as important as having good hands, Pianalto started developing into a fine blocker and developing into a more well rounded tight end. The injury bug struck again during Pianalto's senior season, this time a leg injury. In the eight games he played in, Pianalto was quarterback T.J. Yates safety valve and caught 30 passes for 311 yards and one touchdown.

Pianalto's plethora of injuries will likely keep him out of the draft. He is a versatile tight end who can catch some passes and block, but he is not a superb athlete who is worth the risk when another injury could seemingly strike at any time.