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5-star OT Zalance Heard signs with LSU

On3 imageby:Shea Dixon•12/21/22•

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LSU has officially signed the state of Louisiana’s best offensive lineman.

On Wednesday, Neville High five-star offensive tackle Zalance Heard made things official when he inked with the Tigers.

Heard is ranked by the On3 Consensus as a five-star, the No. 2 prospect in Louisiana, the No. 4 offensive tackle in the country and the No. 24 overall prospect in the 2023 class.

Heard is one of four offensive linemen who committed to the Tigers this cycle, joining fellow Louisiana offensive tackle Tyree Adams as well as a pair of Georgia natives in DJ Chester and Paul Mubenga.

During his junior season at Neville, Heard started at offensive tackle opposite Will Campbell, who was a starter on LSU’s offensive line this past season.

On3 Scouting Report

Physically-gifted offensive tackle prospect with outstanding length and block-finishing skills. Has prototypical size at the position, measuring 6-foot-5.5, 295 pounds as a junior. Possesses elite length, with his arms checking in at 36 inches on college visits. Began his career as a defensive lineman prior to transferring to northeast Louisiana power Neville High. Played exclusively at right tackle as a junior and looks to have the highest upside at offensive tackle. His defensive lineman athleticism shows up by way of advanced movement skills, particularly in the run game where he’s a mauling presence. Already a dominant drive blocker in his first full season playing offensive line. Has natural upper body strength to go with his length and athleticism. Is a bit high-hipped and will need to continue playing lower. Needs to continue developing his pass set technique as he gains experience at the position.

On3 Player Comparison

OL DJ Fluker: NFL Draft Round 1, Pick 11

We see several similarities between Zalance Heard and D.J. Fluker as high school prospects. Both have supreme length with arms that measure in the 36-inch range. They also both began their careers as defensive linemen before taking up offense tackle as upperclassmen. There are similarities on the field, as well. Like Fluker, Heard is a strong run blocker who plays with a physical edge. Heard is about an inch taller than Fluker and weighs less at the same stage, though we wouldn’t be surprised to see their ultimate playing weight be the same – in the 330 pound range.

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