NFL CAREER – During the first two years of his NFL career, Strief has served as the top reserve at left tackle and has distinguished himself with stellar play in his two career starts. Including all 16 last season, he has appeared in 25 games since being drafted in the seventh round in 2006, playing primarily on special teams. He has prototype size and the ability to play both tackle spots, as he started 40 contests at right tackle during a standout college career at Northwestern. Strief is also one of the Saints’ most community-minded players, getting involved weekly in charitable and educational programs and events.

CAREER TRANSACTIONS – Signed a three-year contract, 7/20/06; Selected in the seventh round (210th overall) of the 2006 NFL Draft.

2007 – Played in all 16 games, primarily on special teams while also starting at LT at Houston, Nov. 18, in place of injured starter Jammal Brown…Also saw extended time vs. St. Louis, Nov. 11, when Brown was forced to depart in the first quarter…Periodically appeared as a tight end in jumbo offensive packages. 2006 – Played in nine games, starting at LT at Tampa Bay, Nov. 5. Didn’t allow a sack and praised by the coaching staff following the contest for a solid performance after stepping in for T Jammal Brown…Declared inactive for seven regular-season games…Saw action in both postseason contests on special teams.

COLLEGE – Anchored Northwestern’s offensive line at tackle for his final three seasons, starting 40 games at right tackle…Recognized as a first-team All-American by the Football Writers Association of America and was a consensus second-team All-Big Ten as a senior…A key performer on a record-setting offense that averaged more than 500 yards per game and ranked fourth nationally…Second-team All-Big Ten in 2004…Became a full-time starter in 2003.

PERSONAL – Attended Milford (Ohio) HS…Allowed zero sacks as a senior and one as a junior…Also lettered in basketball and track… Communication studies major and minored in business institutions…Full name: Zachary David Strief…Born Sept. 22, 1983 in Cincinnati, Ohio.