Arizona's football program has unveiled its latest countdown of the 15 players who will shape the 2026 season, a list that spotlights impact over legacy. The rankings aim to capture immediate contributions rather than long‑term projections, giving fans a snapshot of who will be pivotal on the field.
Zach Henning lands at No. 13 on that list. In 2025 he appeared in all 13 games and earned starts in the final four contests at center. According to Pro Football Focus, his pass‑blocking grade settled at 66.7 while his run‑blocking grade was 65.7, numbers that would have placed him among the better linemen on the roster.
The departure of Ka'ena Decambra to the NFL creates a direct vacancy at the center position, and Henning is slated to fill it. His prior experience gives him a clear edge over younger alternatives such as Grayson Stovall and Javian Goo, both of whom are also on the roster but lack the same amount of game‑tested snaps.
Athleticism Meets Experience
Offensive line coach Josh Oglesby has publicly praised Henning's blend of size, agility and football IQ. He described the senior as a natural fit for the scheme, noting that his athleticism allows him to slide effectively in pass protection while maintaining the leverage needed for run plays.
Protecting quarterback Noah Fifita will be a central theme of Arizona's offense. Henning's ability to keep the pocket clean directly influences the quarterback's timing and the overall rhythm of the attack. The coaching staff believes that solid interior play will open up opportunities for the skill players on the outside.
Beyond the numbers, Henning brings a veteran presence to a unit that will be reshaped by new starters. His familiarity with the playbook and his chemistry with the rest of the line should help the team transition smoothly into the new season, giving Arizona a stable foundation on which to build its offensive identity.