The New Orleans Saints selected offensive lineman Cesar Ruiz with the 24th pick in the NFL Draft on Thursday night.
Ruiz quietly emerged as one of the best interior offensive linemen in a class that was heavy on first-round tackles. It's a lifelong pattern for Ruiz, who told reporters at the Scouting Combine that he volunteered to play center when he was a kid because no one else wanted to. Well, it appears to have worked out just fine for the 20-year-old.
Here's what you need to know on Cesar Ruiz:
Measurables: 6’3”/307
School: Michigan
2019 Stats: Allowed only 10 quarterback pressures all season, according to Pro Football Focus
Accolades: Second-Team All-Big Ten 2019, Third-Team All-Big Ten 2018
Strengths:
• Rated the best center in pass protection by Pro Football Focus
• Capable of playing either guard spot, in addition to center
• Three years' experience, including two as a starter, before the age of 21
• Elite pedigree from a school known for producing terrific offensive linemen
Weaknesses:
• Lacks elite size and athleticism
• Could have trouble with superior NFL-caliber athletes
Expert scouting report:
• "One of the best interior blockers in the entire draft class" - Eric Edholm of Yahoo Sports
• "Early starting potential and should develop into a good pro with guard/center flexibility" -- Lance Zierlein of NFL.com
• "Athletic enough to play either guard spot" -- Mel Kiper Jr. of ESPN
Tape:
Player Comparison: Maurkice Pouncey, per Mike Renner of Pro Football Focus
Like Pouncey, Ruiz offers positional flexibility, a great feel for the game, and machine-like consistency in a slightly undersized package. The wow factor might not be there, but these are the kinds of guys you build around on the interior.
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