Jaguars Bolster O-Line, Trade for Vikings’ Ezra Cleveland
The Jacksonville Jaguars have made a move to strengthen their offensive line by acquiring guard Ezra Cleveland from the Minnesota Vikings. In exchange, the Jaguars traded a 2024 sixth-round pick to the Vikings. The team also released veteran guard Ben Bartch to make room on the roster.
Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson expressed his excitement about the acquisition during an interview on “The Pat McAfee Show.” Pederson believes that Cleveland will provide much-needed depth to the offensive line, especially with starting left guard Walker Little dealing with a knee injury.
“It’s just a matter of getting him caught up and getting him in the room with a really good offensive line,” Pederson said. “Getting a guy like Ezra, we got a starting-type guard. Really, really solidifies our offensive line and makes us better.”
Cleveland brings a wealth of experience to the Jaguars, having started 49 games in three-plus seasons for the Vikings. He had started 45 consecutive games before missing the past two due to a foot injury. Although he played as an offensive tackle at Boise State, the Vikings moved him to guard after selecting him in the second round of the 2020 draft.
With Cleveland’s departure, Dalton Risner will step into the role of the Vikings’ new starting left guard. Risner has already started the past two games in Cleveland’s absence.
Meanwhile, Walker Little, who initially started the season at left tackle, moved inside to left guard after Cam Robinson’s return from a four-game suspension. Little recently returned from a knee injury but only played on special teams against Pittsburgh.
As for Ben Bartch, he began the season as the Jaguars’ starting left guard but was eventually benched in favor of Tyler Shatley in Week 4. Shatley has since been starting at left guard following Little’s injury.
The addition of Ezra Cleveland is expected to provide a significant boost to the Jaguars’ offensive line. His experience and versatility will be crucial in solidifying the unit and improving the team’s overall performance.
In conclusion, the Jacksonville Jaguars have made a strategic move to enhance their offensive line by acquiring guard Ezra Cleveland from the Minnesota Vikings. This trade demonstrates the team’s commitment to strengthening their roster and addressing key areas of need. With Cleveland’s arrival, the Jaguars hope to improve their offensive line depth and ultimately enhance their performance on the field.