Draft Profile: OL Cesar Ruiz

Ruiz could fit what Detroit is looking for along the offensive line

University of Michigan center Cesar Ruiz has been steadily moving up draft boards since he declared for the 2020 NFL Draft last month.

The 6-foot-4, 320-pound lineman could be a solid replacement for Graham Glasgow, if he departs from the Lions this offseason. 

According to Pro Football Focus, Ruiz was rated the top pass-blocking center in college football in 2019.

He has shown the versatility that the Lions are looking for, based on his potential to play both guard and center.

According to The Draft Network:

"Consistently executes and connects with moving targets on the second level and longer pulls. Love how he takes opponents where they want to go, more than they want to go there and claims wins. Hands are held high and his punch is well-timed, powerful and efficient. Deliberate throughout every rep to fit his hands. Excellent body control and ability to recoil if he ever concedes ground in pass pro. Scheme versatile and offers interior position flexibility." 

As a junior, Ruiz garnered attention and accolades for his play at center. The final five games he played as a junior, Ruiz was stellar in his blocking responsibilities. 

He allowed only eight pressures in 447 pass-blocking snaps in his junior season.

According to some draft analysts, Ruiz has shown the ability to move really well, but could shed some weight to make himself even more mobile. 

The biggest area of improvement involves consistently displaying fundamentals in pass protection. 

It was highlighted by NFL scouts that Ruiz can get a little antsy in pass protection, causing footwork to become an issue.

Ruiz is a very solid center prospect who should be able to adapt to any offensive system in the NFL, and that makes him an appealing candidate for the Lions. 

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