Countdown to Kickoff: Zach Wood is the Saints Player of Day 49
We have less than 50 days before the New Orleans Saints embark on their 59th NFL season with a regular season opener at home against the Arizona Cardinals. Wearing No. 49 for new coach Kellen Moore's crew is an underappreciated member of the roster, long snapper Zach Wood. Entering his ninth season with New Orleans, Wood is one of the longest-tenured Saints and longest-tenured long snappers in the NFL. Our Saints Player of the Day, here's a deeper dive into his background.
At Rowlett High School, Wood was an honorable mention all-state defensive tackle before committing to Southern Methodist University. As a defensive end in a 3-4 front for the Mustangs, Wood started 33 contests over his last three seasons. He gathered 8.5 sacks and forced 2 fumbles while also blocking 4 kicks and serving as the team's long snapper.
After not being selected in the 2016 NFL draft, Wood was signed to an undrafted deal by the Dallas Cowboys. He didn't make the Dallas roster as a defensive lineman, but was brought back the following offseason on a reserve/future contract as a long snapper. Wood was again cut by the Cowboys at the conclusion of the preseason. This time, he was picked up by Sean Payton and the New Orleans Saints.
Wood won the long snapper job with New Orleans after a tryout. He'd remain in that role for the last 132 consecutive games. Wood has been one of the league's most consistent players at his often overlooked position. In 2022, he earned 2nd Team All-Pro recognition from Pro Football Focus. After a series of one-year contracts, New Orleans awarded him for his consistently with a four-year deal in 2023. There are a lot of questions surrounding the Saints roster heading into this season. However, long snapper is not one of those positions, thanks to the capabilities of Zach Wood.
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