Derek Zammit

Physical Profile

Listed at 6-foot-1 and 195 pounds, Zammit has a solid, compact build for the quarterback position. He doesn't possess overwhelming size or a cannon for an arm, but he's a functional athlete with quick feet that allow him to effectively navigate the pocket and escape pressure. His frame is developed enough to withstand the rigors of the position at the next level, though he is not considered to have elite physical traits.

Play Style

Zammit operates effectively from a pro-style attack that often puts him under center. He excels in the play-action game, where he can use his pocket mobility and accurate arm to manipulate defenses. He is a smart and decisive passer who protects the football and shows the ability to change arm angles to make throws around defenders. While not a true dual-threat, he is a capable runner who can pick up crucial yards with his legs, evidenced by his 560 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns as a junior.

Strengths

• **Advanced Pocket Mobility & Awareness:** Zammit possesses a natural feel for pressure, showing an advanced internal clock to sidestep rushers, climb the pocket, and extend plays. His quick-footedness is a key asset in escaping sacks and creating second-chance opportunities.
• **High-Level Accuracy and Ball Placement:** He consistently delivers catchable passes and shows the ability to throw his receivers open, excelling at hitting targets in stride, particularly off play-action. His impressive junior year statistics of 35 touchdowns to only 4 interceptions underscore his precision and sound decision-making.
• **Proven Winner & Intangibles:** Zammit is described as a "gritty signal caller" who simply finds ways to win. Leading DePaul Catholic to a state title as a freshman speaks to his leadership and ability to perform under pressure, traits that have been evident throughout his career.

Areas to Improve

• **Arm Strength:** While he can make all the necessary throws, his arm talent is not elite. Continued development in his lower body mechanics will be key to generating more velocity to consistently drive the ball downfield and into tight windows against faster college defenders.
• **Consistent Mechanics Under Pressure:** Although generally sound, like many young quarterbacks, his mechanics can waver when forced into off-platform throws. Refining his footwork and maintaining a consistent arm slot when improvising will elevate his game.

College Projection

Zammit projects as a reliable, high-floor starting quarterback at the Power Five level. His mental makeup, accuracy, and pocket feel give him a strong foundation to compete for playing time early in his career. He is expected to redshirt in 2026, with the potential to compete for the starting job in subsequent years as he continues to develop physically and adapts to the speed of the college game.

Best Fit

A pro-style or spread offense that emphasizes timing, rhythm, and play-action passing is the ideal fit for Zammit. A system that values quarterback intelligence, decision-making, and accuracy over pure physical tools will allow his best traits to shine. His commitment to Washington under Coach Jedd Fisch, known for his work with quarterbacks in similar offensive systems, is an excellent match.