NFL Draft Profile: Charlie Cleveland, EDGE, Tiffin Dragons

NFL Draft profile scouting report for Tiffin EDGE Charlie Cleveland

Charlie Cleveland
Tiffin Dragons

#7
Pos: EDGE
Ht: 6020
Wt: 234
Hand: 968
Arm: 3228
Wing: 7748
40: 4.75
DOB: 12/30/1997
Hometown: East Chicago, IN
High School: East Chicago Central
Eligibility: 2023

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Evaluation: 

A sixth-year senior who brings vast experience, Cleveland is a well-balanced linebacker, proving capable of getting after the quarterback, while also taking pride in setting the edge against the run. He does a nice job fighting through the rubble, disengaging from blocks and takes correct angles in pursuit. An outspoken, vocal leader, Cleveland has acted as an additional coach on the field, oftentimes communicating with teammates before and during the play. Early on in his career, Cleveland lined up primarily as a hand-in-the-dirt pass-rusher. He has since evolved and spent most of his final season playing standup linebacker, while showcasing the ability to drop back in pass coverage. At times, Cleveland has even been seen lining up over center and a permanent move to middle linebacker might be where he fits best at the next level. His smarts, instincts and quickness should allow for him to be cross-trained at multiple linebacker spots. Cleveland operates with a technician approach and will be very hard to cut once you get him into the building. He projects as an undrafted free agent who could stick as a valuable backup.

Background: 

Suffered a torn ACL after his sophomore season at Tiffin. Endured a knee injury in high school, causing him to miss half his junior year. Hails from the inner-streets of East Chicago, where gangs are common. In fact, he was sitting next to his friend Marty Carter (tryout with Kansas City Chiefs) who was recently shot and left paralyzed from the incident. His mom passed away at the age of eight; also lost his uncle, who was like a father figure and his brother. An All-State First Team selection at Central high School, racking up 143 tackles, 33 tackles for loss and 19 sacks as a senior. Majored in criminal justice. Accolades: In 48 career games for the Dragoons: totaled 235 tackles (53 tackles for loss), 30 sacks, five pass breakups, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. Played one season at Midwestern Prep College, recorded 57 tackles and 12 sacks. A multiple D2CCA All-Region and All-GMAC First Team selection.