FARGO — Former North Dakota State offensive lineman Grey Zabel was the top-graded player in the NFL during the final week of the regular season, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF).
Zabel, who starts at left guard for the Seattle Seahawks, earned a PFF grade of 93.4 in Week 18, the highest grade of any player across the league. PFF grades players on a scale from 0 to 100, highlighting Zabel’s exceptional performance.
The Seahawks secured a 13-3 victory against the San Francisco 49ers in the final week of the regular season. With that win, Seattle finished with a 14-3 record and clinched the top seed in the NFC.
Seattle’s offense showcased a strong ground game, rushing for 180 yards and a touchdown on 39 attempts against the 49ers. Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold also had an efficient outing, completing 20 of 26 passes for 198 yards. This victory marked Seattle’s first NFC West title since 2020.
Earning the top seed granted the Seahawks a first-round bye in the NFL playoffs, which begin Saturday, Jan. 10.
Seattle head coach Mike Macdonald praised the impact of starting offensive tackle Charles Cross on the rookie lineman. “He’s been great for Grey since Grey walked in the door,” Macdonald said.
The Seahawks selected Grey Zabel at No. 18 overall in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. The rookie from Pierre, South Dakota, has quickly made a significant impression in Seattle’s offensive line.
https://www.inforum.com/sports/pro/former-bison-ol-grey-zabel-top-graded-nfl-player-for-week-18