Las Vegas Raiders Scouting: Brandon Cleveland

Introduction:

*Age*: 21 *Height*: 6’4 *Weight*: 315 *Stats*: 107 tackles, 17 TFL, 6 sacks, PBU, 2 FF, 38 pressures, 11 hits, 47 run stops, 6.7% pass rush win rate *Positional Splits:*

• 0-Tech: 590 snaps
• 1-Tech: 353 snaps
• 2-Tech: 308 snaps
• 3-Tech: 98 snaps
• 4-Tech: 58 snaps *RAS Testing:*
• 5.12 40 (1.78 10-Split), 26.5 Vert, 4.91 Shuttle | 5.11 RAS (6.34 at NT)

Positives:

I wrote about Cleveland before, he’s been one of my guys the entire cycle, and the last time a guy from NC State was one of “my guys” it was Jakobi Meyers, then Drake Thomas, so hopefully Cleveland follows their steps. He’s big, and he’s a physical defensive tackle. Cleveland is your prototypical NT, he had a depth of tackle of 1.72 which was 4th among all 2026 DT’s that were draft eligible. He has heavy physical hands, he’s extremely violent, and his lower half is exceptionally well built. Cleveland anchors well, has a stout lower half, and he’s a tough mover for the interior offensive line. He utilize his core, drives through blockers, and keeps his feet moving. Cleveland has good closing speed, is able to get into the backfield quickly, and his second step is noticeable also. He does a great job engaging his arms and using his full body to drive backwards. Cleveland understands leverage, uses his natural leverage and plays with low pads making it hard for defenders to engage him. He’s well balanced, plays with fluid knees, hips, and ankles, and shows a good ability to turn and bend as a pass rusher. He has some flashy NFL pass rush moves, mainly a club, swipe, and does good with speed to power but his overall pass rush ability likely isn’t the main taker at the NFL level. Former wrestler, understands leverage, elite grip strength.