In 2025 Arizona Cardinals training camp, linebacker Zaven Collins is expected to be a key player, showcasing his skills and leadership to strengthen the team’s defensive lineup.
As the Arizona Cardinals gear up for the 2025 NFL season, much anticipation surrounds their roster, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Among the standout players is linebacker Zaven Collins, whose journey from a highly touted draft pick to a central figure in the team’s defensive scheme exemplifies resilience, talent, and leadership. Entering training camp, Collins is projected to be a key player, whose development and performance could significantly influence the Cardinals’ success in 2025. This detailed preview explores Collins’ background, skill set, role expectations, leadership qualities, and the strategic importance of his position as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
Background and Rise to Prominence
Zaven Collins was born on August 20, 1999, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Demonstrating exceptional athletic ability early in his football career, Collins made a name for himself as a versatile linebacker at Union High School, earning accolades for his size, speed, and instincts. His standout performance in high school earned him recognition from college recruiters, leading to his commitment to the University of Tulsa.
At Tulsa, Collins continued to develop as an elite linebacker, showcasing impressive athleticism, instincts, and versatility. His ability to line up both inside and outside, combined with his pass-rushing skills, made him a highly coveted prospect for NFL teams. His college career culminated in a breakout senior season, where he posted stellar stats and earned All-Conference honors, further cementing his reputation as a top-tier linebacker.
The Arizona Cardinals selected Zaven Collins in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft (No. 28 overall), making him one of the franchise’s premier defensive investments. Expectations were high, given his physical tools and college production, and the team envisioned him as a future cornerstone in their linebacker corps.
Early NFL Career and Development
Collins’ rookie season in 2021 was a period of adjustment, as he transitioned to the speed and complexity of NFL defenses. While he showed flashes of brilliance—particularly as a pass rusher and run defender—he also faced challenges typical of young players learning a pro scheme. His athleticism and instincts were evident, but consistency and recognition needed refinement.
In 2022 and 2023, Collins made strides, becoming more comfortable in his role, improving his football IQ, and developing a more nuanced understanding of defensive responsibilities. His versatility allowed the Cardinals to deploy him in multiple roles—inside linebacker, outside linebacker, and even as a blitzer—making him a flexible component in their defensive plans.
Throughout his early NFL years, Collins demonstrated a relentless work ethic, often praised by coaches and teammates for his dedication to growth. His physical attributes—standing at 6’4″, weighing around 265 pounds, with a rare combination of speed and agility—made him a matchup nightmare for opposing offenses.
Skill Set and Playing Style
Zaven Collins is characterized by his exceptional athleticism and raw talent. His skill set encompasses several key elements that make him invaluable on the field:
Speed and Agility: Collins possesses elite straight-line speed, allowing him to chase down running backs and cover sideline-to-sideline. His agility helps him change direction swiftly, crucial for coverage responsibilities and pass rush moves.
Versatility: His ability to play multiple linebacker roles adds strategic flexibility. Whether lining up inside to stop the run or outside to rush the passer, Collins can adapt based on the team’s needs.
Pass-Rushing Ability: Collins has shown a knack for generating pressure on quarterbacks, utilizing a combination of speed, power, and technique. His length and quick first step enable him to beat blockers and apply pressure.
Run Defense: His physicality and instincts make him effective at shedding blocks and pursuing ball carriers. His tackling technique is solid, and he demonstrates good awareness in reading plays.
Coverage Skills: Developing as a coverage linebacker, Collins has improved his ability to cover tight ends and running backs in space, which is vital in modern NFL defenses that emphasize pass coverage.
Intelligence and Football IQ: His understanding of offensive schemes and recognition of play concepts help him anticipate and react quickly, reducing mistakes and creating turnovers.
Role Expectations for the 2025 Season
Entering training camp in 2025, Collins is expected to take on a more prominent role in the Cardinals’ defense. Several factors contribute to this outlook:
1. Leadership and Responsibility
Having gained experience and respect within the locker room, Collins is poised to assume a leadership role, both vocally and through his on-field performance. His work ethic and professionalism set a standard for younger players, and head coach Jonathan Gannon is likely to lean on his leadership qualities as a core defender.
2. Starting Linebacker Position
While competition in the linebacker corps exists, Collins is projected to be a primary starter, likely occupying an outside linebacker position. His versatility allows the coaching staff to deploy him as a key pass rusher and a run-stopping presence, integral to their defensive schemes.
3. Pass Rushing and Edge Play
Given the NFL’s emphasis on pass offense, Collins’ ability to rush the quarterback is crucial. In 2025, the Cardinals plan to utilize his athleticism to generate consistent pressure, either as a stand-up outside linebacker or by lining up on the edge. His pass-rush moves, combined with schematic schemes, aim to exploit offensive vulnerabilities.
4. Coverage Duties
In addition to rushing the passer, Collins will be expected to handle coverage responsibilities, especially in nickel and dime packages. His speed helps him match up against tight ends and athletic backs, contributing to the pass defense’s overall effectiveness.
5. Run Defense and Tactical Flexibility
Collins’s agility and tackling ability make him a key player in stopping the run, especially on the edges and in linebacker-box plays. His ability to read plays quickly allows him to fill gaps effectively and pursue ball carriers.
6. Special Teams Contributions
While primarily a linebacker, Collins’s athleticism could also see him involved in special teams duties, such as coverage units or onside kick teams, adding value to the roster beyond his linebacker responsibilities.
Training Camp Expectations
Training camp is a critical period for Collins to refine his skills, build chemistry with teammates, and demonstrate his leadership. The following are key areas of focus:
1. Physical Conditioning
Maintaining peak physical condition is essential. Collins will focus on strength training, agility drills, and injury prevention exercises to ensure durability throughout the grueling NFL schedule.
2. Technical Refinement
Collins is expected to work on pass-rushing techniques—such as swim moves, rip moves, and stunts—as well as coverage skills and tackling consistency. Improving recognition of offensive formations and tendencies will enhance his instinctive play.
3. Scheme Integration
Familiarity with the defensive scheme under coordinator Nick Rallis and head coach Gannon is vital. Collins will study film, learn specific assignments, and adapt to new concepts introduced in training camp.
4. Leadership Development
Given his emerging leadership role, Collins will also work on communication skills, motivating teammates, and setting an example through his work ethic and attitude.
5. Mentoring and Mentorship
Young players and rookies will look up to Collins, and he will be expected to mentor emerging talent, fostering a positive team culture and encouraging collective growth.
Impact on the Defense and Team Outlook
Collins’ rise in prominence is pivotal to the Cardinals’ defensive strategy in 2025. His ability to generate pressure from multiple spots can disrupt opposing offenses, create turnovers, and set the tone for the defense. His versatility allows the coaching staff to deploy him creatively, confusing offenses and maximizing pressure packages.
Furthermore, Collins’ leadership qualities can galvanize the team, particularly as the franchise rebuilds and redefines its defensive identity. His example of resilience, dedication, and professionalism can inspire younger players to elevate their game.
The success of the Cardinals’ defensive scheme heavily relies on Collins’ development and consistency. If he continues to grow and assume the responsibilities expected of a first-round linebacker, he could become a perennial Pro Bowler and a cornerstone of the franchise’s future.
Challenges and Areas for Growth
While Collins possesses exceptional tools, he must address certain areas to reach his full potential:
Ball Recognition and Playmaking: Improving his ability to read plays and make impactful turnovers can elevate his game.
Run-Stopper Consistency: Refining his tackling and gap discipline will help contain the run game more effectively.
Pass Coverage: Continuing to develop coverage skills against versatile tight ends and backs is crucial for his role in modern NFL defenses.
Injury Prevention: Staying healthy and managing physical wear and tear are vital for long-term impact.
Looking Ahead: The Path to Elite Status
The 2025 training camp is a pivotal juncture for Zaven Collins. With the right development, leadership, and consistency, he can transform from a promising young linebacker into a dominant force in the league. His growth this season could define his career trajectory and significantly influence the Arizona Cardinals’ defensive fortunes.
The franchise’s investment in Collins, combined with his innate talent and work ethic, suggests a bright future. Fans and analysts alike will be watching his progress closely, eager to see how he elevates his game and helps lead the team to a competitive resurgence.
Zaven Collins stands at a critical point in his NFL journey as the 2025 Arizona Cardinals training camp unfolds. His combination of athleticism, versatility, and leadership makes him a central figure in the team’s defensive plans. As he works to refine his skills, build rapport with teammates, and embrace his leadership role, Collins has the potential to be a defining player for the franchise. His development this season could not only shape the Cardinals’ defensive success but also cement his legacy as an emerging star in the NFL. The 2025 campaign promises to be a significant chapter in Collins’ career, and fans are hopeful that he will rise to the occasion, showcasing his talents and establishing himself as one of the league’s premier linebackers.
