Notre Dame Football: Malik Zaire has three options, all of which aren’t great fits
Former Notre Dame football quarterback, Malik Zaire, is set to make his transfer decision on May 19, but his top choice may not be an option anymore.
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Leading up to the decision, Zaire’s top schools were Florida, Wisconsin, Texas and surprisingly, Harvard. With Texas, Wisconsin and Florida all being top 25 contenders, and Harvard being a constant Ivy League powerhouse, Zaire is set to continue his football career on a winning team.
During the last several weeks and months, the quarterback’s top choice appeared to be Florida. However, SEC restrictions do not allow the Gators even to take Zaire, which may have eliminated them from contention.
Prior to marking his decision date, both parties were assumed to be waiting until the conference spring meeting to try and work it out. Now, though, it appears as though Zaire has moved on from the possibility of Florida.
Was told Malik Zaire may announce his decision on May 19, before SEC meetings. That could eliminate UF, leaving Texas, Wisconsin & Harvard
— Anwar Richardson (@AnwarRichardson) May 5, 2017
This now leaves Wisconsin, Texas, and Harvard. With one year of eligibility remaining, Zaire’s choice is going to be one that includes numerous factors. Obviously, he wants the education to be high if Harvard is in the mix. Having one year left; Playing time is probably a strong consideration. Therefore, he could be looking at Texas and Harvard as his top two.
Wisconsin is one of the best teams in the NCAA. Heading into 2017, they’ll be an automatic contender for the Big Ten and the College Football Playoff. But with Alex Hornibrook coming back for his sophomore season, Zaire may only be looking at split time with the Badgers.
Texas may have found their quarterback already in Shane Buechele, but Zaire could come in and compete heavily for the starting job. If he isn’t willing to take that chance, Harvard may be his best option.
Zaire’s only problem with the Crimson would be the lack of exposure. He could very well be a top NFL prospect next offseason, but without many televised games, his draft stock could take a severe blow.
Really, none of these schools are a great fit for Zaire. Florida would have been the best option, but if Zaire is willing to wait, the Gators are out the door. So, the former Notre Dame QB will have to either fight for the starting job at Wisconsin or Texas or hope he can shine enough to catch the attention of NFL scouts while playing at Harvard.
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It’s not going to be an easy road ahead for Zaire. He would’ve liked to go somewhere with an open quarterback position, but instead, he’ll battle his way to the top. With the perseverance and talent, he showed in South Bend, you can never count him out no matter where he goes.