FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- LSU tight end Keith Zinger rounded out the 2008 Draft Class Sunday afternoon for the Falcons. Zinger, a 250-pound blocking tight end, was selected in the seventh round (232nd overall).
In 14 games played last season, Zinger caught three passes for 51 yards (17.0 average) and a long reception of 27 yards. His clutch 27-yard reception came against Tennessee in the SEC Championship game. He served as a punishing blocker on the team's 2007 National Championship squad.
"We think Keith can come in here not only as a blocking tight end but also (with) special teams ability," General Manager Thomas Dimitroff said. "You hear the overtones about special teams being important for us as well, especially when you're talking mid to late rounds."
Despite starting 10 games in 2005, Zinger was bothered late in the year with a left hand fracture. He scored the only touchdown for his career, as he grabbed a career-high seven passes for 104 yards. The following season was one Zinger would like to forget. He started three games, but suffered a sprained ankle in the season opener that sidelined him for the next two games. He was diagnosed with colitis in mid-October, resulting in an outbreak of staph infection on his back, missing eight of the team's final nine games. He did not have any catches in the three contests he played in.
During 2007 spring camp, Zinger was again sidelined by pneumonia. He went on to start 11 of 14 contests. He was credited with 34 knock-down blocks, as he also gained 51 yards on three receptions.
RELATED LINKS:
- NEWS: Falcons close out 2008 Draft with tight end selection | Photos
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