Zak DeOssie Named To Pro Bowl

by Ed Valentine on Jan 20, 2011 2:42 PM EST in New York Giants News

New York Giants long-snapper Zak DeOssie was today named to his second Pro Bowl. He also went two seasons ago when then-Giants Jeff Feagles and John Carney were the kickers.

"Through my experience from the last time I went, I understand that this is the time where they choose the long snappers," DeOssie said today. "In the back of my mind, I had a one-in-16 chance at the worst. So, I figured maybe I could be getting a call, maybe not. I don't know how it works and who it's up to ultimately, but apparently somebody down in Atlanta saw something that they like and they extended an invitation to me, which I'm very fortunate about."

DeOssie was selected by Atlanta coach Mike Smith. Whatever the criteria, DeOssie is an excellent snapper. Good thing, too, because it's the only reason he has an NFL career. The whole linebacker thing never worked out for the four-year pro from Brown. For the 2010 season DeOssie dropped all pretense of being an NFL linebacker, and worked solely on snapping and special teams play.

"I think I had my best year snapping," DeOssie said. "It all comes down to consistency, and again having Sage and Lawrence there helping me. Matt and I will keep working. I felt more confident this year than I have in the past.

"It feels great. I'm just fortunate that these coaches thought of me again. No long snapper is used to getting any sort of recognition. I'm not complaining about that, but at the same time, it's a little different and not a bad thing."

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not a bad way to earn an NFL paycheck!

Usually you only notice a Long Snapper if they screw up, Keep up the good work Zak

by Late for Dinner on Jan 20, 2011 2:47 PM EST reply actions

Like on the high snap to Dodge in the Eagles game? ;)

Either way, he’s been very consistent as a long snapper for us. Much deserved.

by Jonathan. on Jan 20, 2011 3:21 PM EST up reply actions

awesome

by The Blood of Eli on Jan 20, 2011 2:49 PM EST reply actions

A true team player

by BigBlue82 on Jan 20, 2011 2:59 PM EST reply actions

Sometimes you are in the right place at the right time.

I was also one who pulled for him because of his dad. I’m happy for him

by giant fan since 57 on Jan 20, 2011 3:28 PM EST reply actions

Steve was a good guy

had a lot of heart….probably didn’t have that much more talent than Zac did at LB….but he did have the long hair and the black visor which was a pretty bad ass look at the time….

by andiamo708 on Jan 20, 2011 3:52 PM EST up reply actions

My coworker lived downstairs from Zak in Hoboken last year...

Says he was the nicest, most down to earth dude. They played beer pong together, etc., and said he was just a normal, nice guy who likes to have a good time. Glad we have a long snapper we never have to worry about….now if only we could say the same about the guy he’s snapping it to!

by Split316 on Jan 20, 2011 3:29 PM EST reply actions

thats really great to hear.hey look at that we actually do have a pro bowl olb.

by big blue born in philly on Jan 20, 2011 3:51 PM EST reply actions

I'm sure you guys who long snapped in HS or college know its isn't as easy as it looks. Good for him.

His name was often mentioned in tackles on punts. Unfortunately not the “big one”.

by Hank4910 on Jan 20, 2011 4:42 PM EST reply actions

Let's not underestimate the importance of a good snapper. (plant tongue in cheek)

Need I say Trey Junkin to anyone here? He’s just too slow to ever be an NFL LB and he’s too small to be a lineman, so he found himself a way to make a half-mil or more a year for 15 years with minimal risk to major injury. Maybe those Ivy guys aren’t as dumb as they look.

by TNYFBG on Jan 20, 2011 4:42 PM EST reply actions

No a worthwhile mid-rounder

for someone who is getting recognition as a pro-bowl contributor on STs.

by lueeluee on Jan 20, 2011 4:44 PM EST reply actions

Do you think Quinn would still be working for Mike Smith?

"When I was a boy and I had no sense..I got my pecker caught in an electric fence..Well it curled my hair, tickled my balls and made me shit in my overalls..."
Bring Frank back..or you all can line up and "Kiss my Ass"..This is bullshit..

by Bobbiblue on Jan 20, 2011 6:42 PM EST reply actions

Zak probably had a lot of good coaches in his past and hasn’t let Cough Cough Cough the ball up Coughlin ruin his good habits, at least not yet. Keep up the good work Zak.

by ezcc on Jan 20, 2011 10:13 PM EST reply actions