Ethan Kinney is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Veritas Prep High School for AZPreps365.com.

GLENDALE - Football was never about statistics and accolades for former NFL defensive lineman Zach Minter. Now a defensive line coach at Veritas Prep, his dreams are now all about his faith, family and being able to lead young men. 

After growing up in Glendale, Minter, 34, would play Division 1 football at Montana State University. He would follow that by playing in the NFL in 2013 and 2014 for the Cincinnati Bengals and Chicago Bears. 

Looking back on his career, he said he could have done a few things differently, such as taking better care of his body. 

“I always thought working out a lot was enough, but I should have put more effort into recovery and injury prevention,” Minter said. “I think that would’ve made a big difference.”

Despite the injuries that he battled during his time in the NFL, he also received inspiration from his peers during his time that made his experience worth it, he said.

Hall of Famer Julius Peppers, who Minter played alongside in Chicago, was one of them. 

“Just seeing how long he played the game at such a high level, coupled with how consistent and hard he worked really stuck with me,” Minter said.

Following his professional career, Minter now spends his days centered around feeling fulfilled in other ways.

Instead of lining up in the NFL on Sundays, he now spends those days with his kids, playing at the park and coaching his players for Veritas Prep. 

Veritas head coach Mike Sanfratello raved about the presence that Minter provides on the coaching staff. 

“Zach is a great coach, but he’s also an awesome man,” Sanfratello said. “He’s got a beautiful family, and we’re super grateful he’s coaching with us.”

Veritas athletic director Chase Beebe echoed that sentiment. 

“It’s not every day you get to have multiple former NFL players on your coaching staff,” Beebe said. “We’re super grateful for his time, and I know our players are as well.”

The feeling is mutual, Minter said, expressing his gratitude for coaching and the people he gets to help guide. 

“I get to spend time with my family, coach kids that I care about and be able to help them through more than just football,” Minter said. “That’s what success looks like for me now.”

Minter said coaching is deeper than just what goes on between the lines on the field. It’s about teaching the next generation the importance of time, discipline and coming together for a common goal.

“You only get one shot at this - one high school career, one chance to tell your family you love them, one practice,” Minter said. “I want my players to understand that every moment matters, and to just be where your feet are.”

Minter said he also tries to take the lessons he learned during his playing career, and pass them down to his players. 

“Football taught me that you’re more than what you do,” Minter said. “My identity used to be wrapped up in being a football player, but I learned that being a good father and a good husband means more than any of that.”