Zenuae "Zen" Michalski is a former American college football offensive tackle who played for the Indiana Hoosiers and Ohio State Buckeyes.
Personal Information
- Position: Offensive tackle
- Height: 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m)
- Weight: 310 lb (141 kg)
- High School: Floyd Central High School (Floyds Knobs, Indiana)
Early Life
Michalski was born and raised in Floyds Knobs, Indiana. He attended Floyd Central High School, where he helped the team to a 9–3 record and an Indiana 5A regional championship appearance as a junior. After receiving over 30 college offers, he initially committed to Louisville but later decommitted and chose Ohio State over Florida State and Penn State.
College Career
Ohio State (2021–2024)
Michalski played sparingly over the 2021, 2022, and 2023 seasons, appearing in limited snaps as a backup. During the 2024 season, he saw his first significant playing time. After starting left tackle Josh Simmons suffered an injury during Ohio State's 32–31 loss to Oregon, Michalski replaced Simmons and was later named the starter after Simmons was ruled out for the season. He made his first career start in the Buckeyes' 21–17 win over Nebraska but struggled, giving up two sacks and two pressures before being carted off the field with an injury late in the game. He was subsequently ruled out for the following games against Penn State and Purdue. After the season, Michalski entered the transfer portal on December 20, 2024.
Indiana (2025)
On January 4, 2025, Michalski transferred to Indiana University. Following the conclusion of the season, he announced his retirement from football after helping lead Indiana to a national championship. In a public statement, he described his decision to step away from the sport as one he had been contemplating for some time.
Awards and Highlights
- 2022 Rose Bowl champion
- 2× CFP national champion (2024, 2025)
