5 things to know about Vikings rookie Ezra Cleveland
By Dustin Baker
5. Cleveland was the fourth offensive linemen taken in the first two rounds of the Vikings drafts since 2010
Before Cleveland, the Vikings spent first or second-round draft picks on three other offensive linemen during the last decade — Garrett Bradbury in 2019, Brian O’Neill in 2018, and Matt Kalil in 2012. The league average is about four during the time frame, putting them right on par with other NFL squads. Typically, NFL teams can find offensive line gems in later rounds and develop such prospects. To a very interpretive extent, the Vikings have done this but not as successfully as franchises like New England, Kansas City, or Dallas.
Had Matt Kalil actually panned out, he would be 31 years old and entering his ninth NFL season — with plenty of tread left on the tires for the Vikings. But he didn’t work out. The team allowed him to exit-stage-left in 2017, and he joined the Carolina Panthers. His tenure there lasted one year, and Kalil has not played in an NFL football game since January 7th, 2018.
At some point, Minnesota must hit on one of their early-round offensive line selections. Such picks are designed to anchor the group for several years. Otherwise, Minnesota can only hope a late-round find or free agent can pick up the slack.