Chargers rebuild offensive line in 3-round 2021 NFL mock draft

Chargers 2021 mock draft: Round 3, Pick 77

Ben Cleveland, Guard, Georgia

By selecting both Vera-Tucker and Roche, the Chargers help alleviate two holes in pass protection and getting to opposing quarterbacks. Telesco decides to double down and get Herbert more protection in the form of Georgia guard, Ben Cleveland.

The six-foot-six, 334-pound behemoth could be an absolute mauler in the NFL. His college pedigree certainly indicates that Cleveland could be a beast, he was the highest-rated guard in the SEC at one point per PFF. They also pointed out Cleveland’s attributes in the run game are also strong, he graded out at 77.4 for his senior year with the Bulldogs.

Watching his film, Cleveland’s frame and physical presence stands out a lot. You can see he punishes defenders opening up running lanes, as he did versus Auburn in 2020. In pass blocking, Cleveland’s lateral quickness is on display as he blocks, shifting with ease despite his size. His awareness is excellent, his ability to pick up the blitz is noteworthy in that game, negating the pass rush.

Cleveland should have no problem shifting between left and right guard in my opinion. If Vera-Tucker turns out to be a more dominant fit at left guard, the Chargers have picked up two starting guards worst-case scenario.