So You Drafted Penn State Safety Zakee Wheatley…
A four-star recruit from Archbishop Spalding High School in Severn, Maryland, Zakee Wheatley appeared in 58 video games for Penn State throughout 5 years, racking up 223 tackles, 5 tackles for losses, six go breakups, and 6 interceptions in 28 begins. He was named All-Big Ten Honorable Mention by the coaches and media.
Wheatley appeared in simply 4 video games as a real freshman, then flashed playmaking potential in his second season with 27 tackles, a compelled fumble, and two interceptions throughout 12 video games. During his breakout redshirt junior season, he began all 16 video games at security, racking up 96 complete tackles, three interceptions, 4 go breakups, and two fumble recoveries. He performed a vital function in Penn State’s College Football Playoff run, recovering a fumble and intercepting a go towards Boise State to earn Fiesta Bowl Defensive Player of the Game honors. In the semifinal towards Notre Dame, he collected a career-high 16 tackles, together with a sack and an interception.
After incomes the beginning job in 2024, Wheatley returned for a fifth season in 2025 and posted one other productive marketing campaign with 74 tackles and an interception, incomes the very best PFF grade amongst Nittany Lion defenders. Wheatley was dubbed the “Takeaway King” for his ball-magnet potential within the secondary, and his versatility—enjoying nook and security with occasional appears to be like at linebacker in sure packages, intrigued NFL groups.
Wheatley earned the “Takeaway King” moniker for a purpose. In 11 compelled turnovers throughout his Penn State profession, he confirmed elite ball-seeking instincts. His 2024 breakthrough season demonstrated what occurs when he will get significant snaps. His pure knack for making performs on the ball is his defining trait.
Having performed nook, security, and linebacker in some packages, he has the flexibility to line up in a number of spots alongside the secondary and modify to no matter protection shell the staff is working. He’s equally at residence in conventional two-high appears to be like, field security roles, nickel packages, and even combined linebacker obligations.
At 6’3″, 203 pounds with a 76-inch wingspan, he has the physical frame NFL secondaries covet. Fluid movements and intelligent positioning compensate for his 4.62 40-yard dash. His lacrosse background shows in his ability to move laterally and create space to make tackles.
Wheatley has also shown he can step up when needed. After KJ Winston got hurt and started early in 2024 Wheatley welcomed the increased role the defense inherited without Winston. He played a crucial role in Penn State’s College Football Playoff run, recording 16 tackles against Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl (tied for third-most in PSU bowl history) and earning Fiesta Bowl Defensive Player of the Game honors.
All in all, Wheatley is a flexible, chess-piece defender who has confirmed he could make performs on the ball and deal with significant quantity. The upside is a constant, productive starter; the ground is a dependable depth/particular groups contributor.