NFL CAREER – Though a reserve, Strief has proven himself to be ready to step into the lineup whenever given an opportunity. He has played in 41 games since being drafted in the seventh round in 2006, with three starts. While the majority of the action he has seen has come on special teams, Strief's quality play on offense has earned the praise of the coaching staff. He has the versatility to play both tackle spots, but has found a home primarily at left tackle, where Strief has prototypical size. Strief is also one of the Saints' most community-minded players, involved weekly in charitable and educational programs and events.

CAREER TRANSACTIONS – Re-signed to a one-year contract (RFA), 4/13/09; Signed a three-year contract, 7/20/06; Selected in the seventh round (210th overall) of the 2006 NFL Draft.

2008 – Played in all 16 games, starting at left tackle at Chicago, Dec. 11 in place of an injured Jammal Brown…Also came on for extended playing time at LT at Denver, Sept. 21, vs. Atlanta, Dec. 7 and at Detroit, Dec. 21…Played right tackle in second half after Jon Stinchcomb departed with back spasms, vs. Minnesota, Oct. 6…Appeared on special teams in every contest, and also served periodically as an extra tight end in short yardage situations. 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 played 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…Zachary David Strief was born Sept. 22, 1983 in Cincinnati, Ohio...Happily married to his wife, Mandy.