Devils’ Gonzalez, Haack could be taken in NFL draft
It takes less than one hand to count the NFL drafts that have included a kicker and punter selected from the same college.
Both times it happened – 1977 and 1985 – the draft consisted of 12 rounds.
Since 1994, when the draft settled at its current seven rounds, the specialists double has never occurred. A few times, no more than two specialists were drafted overall. Only one was selected in 2015.
All of which means Arizona State is on the verge of making seven-round draft history this week.
Groza Award-winning kicker Zane Gonzalez is considered a lock to be drafted, likely as the first specialist overall. Punter Matt Haack’s prospects are rising going into the draft because of his performance during ASU’s Pro Day on March 16 and in subsequent individual team workouts.
Both could hear their names called Saturday, during rounds 4-7, unless someone with enough need – Cincinnati perhaps – gets antsy enough to spend a third-rounder Friday (or trade down in that round) to ensure it lands Gonzalez.
Tampa Bay used a second-round pick last year on Florida State kicker Roberto Aguayo although that extravagance was not well received in most draft reviews.
“You never know what’s in the mind of different organizations,” Gonzalez said. “I leave all that stuff to my agent and let him do his job. I feel pretty confident.”
Cincinnati head coach Marvin Lewis and special teams coordinator Darrin Simmons were among those from the Bengals in Tempe for a long look at Gonzalez on Pro Day. The Bengals cut kicker Mike Nugent late last season and are seeking competition for replacement Randy Bullock.
Gonzalez had a dream season as a senior, finishing his ASU career with six major college records including most field goals (96) and most points by a kicker (494). He made 7of-9 attempts in the 50yard range including a school record 59-yarder. In the Sun Devils’ disappointing 5-7 season, Gonzalez was the brightest light.
Haack was stellar too. The left-footed punter averaged 44.4 yards, sixth best nationally, and is rated as the third best specialist available by Bleacher Report after Gonzalez and Memphis kicker Jake Elliott.
“I’ve had nothing but good feedback,” Haack said. “You can’t take everything they say to heart. I’m keeping an open mind and prepared for whatever happens. My agent and I are pretty confident what’s going to happen.”
In addition to Cincinnati, teams that have worked out Gonzalez and Haack are the Cardinals, Jets, Dolphins, Vikings, Chiefs, Browns, Titans, Raiders, Ravens, Falcons and Panthers.
“It’s been a grind but fun,” Haack said.
Gonzalez and Haack started at ASU together in 2013. Gonzalez excelled immediately, making All Pac-12 as a freshman. Haack, also a wide receiver in high school, became a starter as a sophomore. As Gonzalez’s leg strengthened, he improved on kickoffs and