The Indianapolis Colts are looking to add depth to their offensive line during the upcoming NFL Draft.
Offensive tackle Ezra Cleveland is climbing up the draft board for the Colts after a strong showing at the NFL combine.
The Colts have reportedly met with Cleveland and had a private workout with him as well.
It sounds like the Colts are heavily interested in drafting Cleveland this April at the NFL Draft, but would he be a good fit for the team?
#BoiseState OT Ezra Cleveland had an elite combine and the interest is heavy.
Combine formals: #Browns, #Colts, #Falcons, #Packers, #Eagles & #Lions.
Private workouts: #Cardinals, #Saints, #Browns, #Colts, #Buccaneers, #Falcons.
Private visits: #Raiders, #Browns, #Steelers.
— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) March 11, 2020
Who is Ezra Cleveland?
He was an all-state selection on the defensive line, but excelled at offensive line as well.
Cleveland went to Boise State and started all 14 games during the 2017 season as an offensive tackle.
He earned first-team all-conference notice during his Sophomore season in college.
As a junior, Cleveland earned first-team All-MWC and started 13 games at left tackle.
His junior year was his final season at Boise State and he’ll now likely become a second or third-round pick in the upcoming draft.
Cleveland’s Outstanding Combine Performance
Cleveland’s draft stock skyrocketed after his fantastic performance at the NFL Combine in Indy.
He led all offensive linemen at the combine with a 4.46 in the 20-yard shuttle.
That’s phenomenal for a player who is 6’6 and 311 lbs with arms that are 33 3/8” in length.
Cleveland has quickness and ability at his size that makes him stand out from the rest of the bunch.
He has an extraordinary skill-set that teams are not going to pass on and he definitely made a name for himself during the combine.
I came out really impressed with Boise State OT Ezra Cleveland (#76). I believe he is going to be a Combine winner and garner top-50 consideration.
Look at the man get out in space and demolish the defensive back. pic.twitter.com/G9eOgu5pGA
— Gavino Borquez (@GavinoBorquez) February 5, 2020
What are Cleveland’s Strengths?
It’s obvious that Cleveland has the size and quickness that make him unique.
He is also known for his consistent reach and seal as play-side blocker, according to Lance Zierlein.
Cleveland has quiet hands with direct punch and quick resets, which are obviously great for someone on the o-line.
He is a player that uses his quickness and technique to his advantage.
There’s always areas to improve on as a player, but Cleveland appears to be someone that could jump into a starting role in the NFL quickly.
Where Would Cleveland Fit on the Colts?
The Colts could have a spot opening up on their o-line if Anthony Castonzo heads elsewhere.
The team has expressed interest in bringing back Castonzo after his four-year deal expired at the end of the 2019 season.
The Colts may decide to save money and bring in someone younger through the draft.
If the Colts want Cleveland, they can find a way to open up a roster spot to give him playing time.
Losing Castonzo would hurt, but having a guy like Cleveland come in and take over isn’t the worst thing that could happen to the team.
When Will Cleveland Likely Be Drafted?
It is always tough to predict what is going to happen during the NFL Draft.
Cleveland still has areas of concern such as punch and separate or movement as drive blocker.
It sounds unlikely that Cleveland goes in the first round, so the Colts are expected to take at least two players before him.
He could be drafted around the second or third round, but it will depend on how the draft plays out.
The Colts and many other organizations have their eye on Cleveland as Draft Day approaches.
NEXT: Report: Colts Are Interested In Re-Signing Josh Andrews
