What the Vikings can expect from Ezra Cleveland in 2020
By Adam Carlson
The good
Fortifying the offensive line was a definite need for the Minnesota Vikings. Doing so by selecting ESPN’s best player available in the second round was not only a great value but a great move by a patient team looking to make the most of its assets. Here are some of the best qualities Ezra Cleveland has to offer according to NFL.com and CBS Sports:
Ideal size
Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 311 pounds, the offensive lineman has a low center of gravity and a powerful frame. He will be able to stand his ground against some great opposition thanks to being able to shift his weight well.
Footwork
Finding the ideal “dancing bear” can be hard but Cleveland shows great signs of being able to adjust well using quick and efficient changes in positioning to seal defenders. As one of the most athletic offensive tackles in the draft class, he shows the potential to be a franchise left tackle.
Patience and push
Cleveland seems to have a knack of knowing when to push to the next level and when to let the pressure come to him. While he can push to the next level when needed, he can also let plays develop to stop from giving away the gameplan.
Other traits to like
- Quickness off the snap – Cleveland reacts quickly off the snap to get an advantage over defenders.
- Familiarity – Blocked for Vikings running back Alexander Mattison at Boise State where the two became close.
- Good with hands – Good hand placement and fighting can help Cleveland maintain the advantage when locked in the trenches.