Zander is one of my favorite under-the-radar defensive backs. He had another great season in 2024, displaying all of the traits necessary to translate to the next level. He has fluid hips, good closing speed and has a good frame and long arms that allow him to contest everything. It looked like this past season he took a big jump in my eyes as a lot of balls thrown his way that were PBUs in 2023 turned into interceptions in 2024. I noticed in his film he had multiple interceptions against really good quarterbacks and outstanding receivers. He also has that little bit of edge to him to come down from the safety position and get physical. I think Wheatley is in for a big-time senior campaign.

I’ve gotten to see Zander work a couple of times, most recently at the Gateway To The North Showcase this summer, and I really love the trajectory he’s on. What I saw from him there is confirmed on film. He’s a fluid mover who flips his hips with ease, and my favorite part about Zander is his technique and ability to contest EVERY throw his way. His Hudl is littered with PBU after PBU. He times his jumps great, and is very careful of playing the ball through the hands of the receiver to break it up. Zander is going to be a kid I probably talk about a whole lot this season and for quite some time to come!