Zach Horton
Zach Horton is an American professional football tight end for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League. He played college football for the James Madison Dukes and Indiana Hoosiers before signing with the Lions as an undrafted free agent after the 2025 NFL draft.
Horton attended Lord Botetourt High School in Daleville, Virginia. He was rated as a three-star recruit and committed to play college football for the James Madison Dukes over offers from schools such as Navy, Army, Air Force, Eastern Michigan, and Coastal Carolina.
College career
As a freshman in 2021, Horton appeared in eight games where he did not record any receptions. In 2022, he hauled in 13 receptions for 159 yards and two touchdowns as backup tight end. In week 5 of the 2023 season, Horton hauled in three receptions for 116 yards and two touchdowns in a 31–23 win over South Alabama. He had a breakout 2023 season as James Madison's starting tight end, where he recorded 27 receptions for 275 yards and six touchdowns, earning first-team all-Sun Belt Conference honors. After the season, Horton entered his name into the NCAA transfer portal.
Indiana
Horton transferred to play for the Indiana Hoosiers. He entered the 2024 season as the Hoosiers' starting tight end.
Professional career
Horton signed with the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent on May 9, 2025. He was waived on August 26 as part of final roster cuts, and re-signed to the practice squad. Horton signed a reserve/future contract with Detroit on January 5, 2026.