Zay Flowers: High School | Boston College | Is Playing Today | Size

Xavien “Zay” Kevonn Flowers has become one of the most compelling young wide receivers in the NFL. From his challenging upbringing in Fort Lauderdale to stellar performances at Boston College and impact as a pro with the Baltimore Ravens, Flowers’ story is one of resilience, skill, and growth. In this article, we break down his high school roots, Boston College legacy, physical attributes (size), and current status in the NFL (is he playing today?), alongside insights into his role with the Ravens and what the future holds. 

1. Early Life and High School: The Roots of a Star

Zay Flowers was born on September 11, 2000, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He grew up as the 11th of 14 children in a large family where teamwork, competition, and responsibility were daily realities. His mother, Jackie Walden, died tragically when he was just five years old, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance that would shape his mindset throughout life. His father, Willie Flowers, worked hard to raise the family, instilling discipline and work ethic in all of his children. 

Flowers attended NSU University School in Davie, Florida, where he showcased his athletic versatility. As a high school player, he excelled not only as a wide receiver but also saw action in the defensive backfield. During his junior year, Flowers recorded 48 catches for 631 yards and 10 touchdowns, helping his team reach consecutive state semifinal appearances. Despite facing personal tragedy — his brother Martin was murdered while he was in high school — Flowers continued to excel on the field, showcasing resilience beyond his years. 

As a three-star recruit, he drew attention from Division I programs and ultimately committed to play college football at Boston College. 

2. Boston College Career: Establishing a Legacy

Zay Flowers’ college career at Boston College (2019–2022) was nothing short of spectacular, marked by record-setting performances and growing national recognition. During his time with the Eagles, Flowers became one of the most productive receivers in school history. 

Freshman Year (2019)

He made an immediate impact as a true freshman, tallying 22 receptions for 341 yards and three touchdowns. While those numbers were solid, they only hinted at what was to come. 

Sophomore Breakout (2020)

In his second season, Flowers became only the second Boston College wide receiver to earn First-Team All-ACC honors, finishing with 56 catches for 892 yards and nine touchdowns. His performance showcased his explosive ability to create separation and make big plays downfield. 

Junior and Senior Seasons

Across the next two seasons, Flowers continued to elevate his game. By his senior year, he set Boston College single-season receiving records with 78 receptions for 1,077 yards and 12 touchdowns. His consistency and big-play capability earned him All-ACC recognition multiple times and invitations to postseason All-Star games and award watch lists. 

School Records

By the conclusion of his college career, Flowers had etched his name into the Eagles’ record books as the career leader in receptions (200), receiving yards (3,056), and receiving touchdowns (29) — achievements that solidified his NFL draft status. 

3. Entering the NFL: Draft and Baltimore Ravens

After a decorated college career, Zay Flowers declared for the NFL Draft and was selected by the Baltimore Ravens with the 22nd overall pick in the first round of the 2023 Draft. This was a major milestone, driven by his elite route running, after-catch agility, and football IQ. 

Rookie Season (2023)

In his rookie season, Flowers quickly became a focal point of the Ravens’ offense, hauling in 77 receptions for 858 yards and five touchdowns in 16 games. He demonstrated that his talents translated immediately to the professional level. 

2024 Season and Pro Bowl

The following year, Flowers took another leap forward. He set career highs with 74 receptions for 1,059 yards and four touchdowns, earning his first Pro Bowl selection — a rare honor for a player so early in his career. This performance cemented his role as Baltimore’s top receiving threat. 

4. Size and Physical Attributes: What Makes Flowers Unique

Despite being considered undersized by traditional NFL standards for wide receivers, Zay Flowers’ size is part of what makes him difficult to defend. He stands at approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighs around 183 pounds, combining a compact frame with quickness, balance, and explosive acceleration. 

Why Size Matters

In a league where many receivers exceed 6 feet, Flowers uses his stature to his advantage. His low center of gravity helps him break tackles and make defenders miss in open space. He pairs this with excellent route running and quick-change footwork, allowing him to find separation over intermediate routes and excel in yards-after-catch situations. 

5. Current Status: Is Zay Flowers Playing Today?

As of late 2025, Flowers remains an active member of the Baltimore Ravens and one of their top offensive weapons. He has been productive this season with 71 receptions for 959 yards and 2 touchdowns, ranking among the NFL’s more notable wide receivers statistically. 

Injury Update

Earlier in his career, Flowers dealt with a knee injury that sidelined him during a playoff run. However, he avoided surgery and returned to full health in the offseason, participating fully in team activities and OTAs. Reports indicated he was back practicing without limits and expected to play — a promising sign for his availability in the regular season. 

When checking whether he is playing today, always refer to the Baltimore Ravens official game status report or live depth charts since NFL availability can change up to game time. But with his health restored and fully active on the roster, Flowers is generally expected to play unless late-breaking injury news emerges. 

6. Playing Style and Impact on the Ravens Offense

Zay Flowers isn’t just a stat sheet contributor — he’s a dynamic playmaker who affects how defenses prepare. His versatility allows him to line up both outside and in the slot, run quick plays, jet sweeps, and deeper vertical routes. He also creates mismatches with quick acceleration and expert route manipulation. 

Partnership with Lamar Jackson

With quarterback Lamar Jackson at the helm, Flowers has formed an exciting connection. Jackson’s mobility and passing range allow opportunities for Flowers to shine in open space after the catch, amplifying his effectiveness. 

7. Off-Field Presence and Community Influence

Flowers has used his platform not just to perform on the field but to inspire others off it. While details about his personal life and community engagements continue to grow, his journey from a large family facing hardship to NFL stardom embodies a narrative of resilience and dedication.

8. Future Outlook: What’s Next for Zay Flowers?

At just 25 years old, Flowers is entering what many consider the prime years for an NFL wide receiver. With continued development, leadership roles, and sustained production, his trajectory could place him among the league’s elite receivers. Contractually, his rookie deal runs through 2027, giving both Flowers and the Ravens time to build on their partnership. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What high school did Zay Flowers attend?

Zay Flowers attended NSU University School in Davie, Florida, where he played wide receiver and defensive back, helping his team reach back-to-back state semifinal appearances. 

2. What college did Zay Flowers play for?

Flowers played college football at Boston College from 2019 to 2022, where he became one of the school’s most productive receivers. 

3. How tall is Zay Flowers and what is his size?

He is approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighs around 183 pounds, giving him a compact, explosive playing style. 

4. Is Zay Flowers playing today?

As of the 2025 season, Flowers is active on the Baltimore Ravens roster and generally expected to play unless late injury updates say otherwise. Always check live game status on game day. 

5. What records did Zay Flowers set at Boston College?

He set school records for career receptions (200), receiving yards (3,056), and receiving touchdowns (29).