New England Patriots: Five 2016 NFL Draft Targets
Nov 29, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Baylor Bears defensive end Shawn Oakman (2) rushes past Texas Tech Red Raiders offensive lineman Le’Raven Clark (62) during the first quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Le’Raven Clark, OL, Texas Tech, Sr.
6-foot-5, 316 pounds
Projected Round: 3-4
Throughout the early part of the season, the Patriots’ offensive line has been extremely successful. They are set up well at tackle with Nate Solder and Sebastian Vollmer, and the young interior offensive line has been better than anyone could have imagined.
That being said, you can never have too many talented blockers, and Le’Raven Clark is a prospect who I will have my eye on. Clark was a freshman All-American playing right guard in 2012, before making the position change to left tackle the next season. He has been a dominant force at left tackle the past two years, taking home First Team All-Big 12 honors in both seasons.
Clark is a talented player whose skills translate well to the next level. He is a strong pass blocker with great quickness, length and technique which helps him protect the quarterback. He has the talent to succeed, but Clark will have to get more consistent at the next level. He tends to let defenders get too close to him in the pass rush, sometimes not using his great length to its full advantage.
Clark does have some issues in run blocking, but he does flash some signs of success, especially when reaching out to the second-level. Make no mistake though, his run blocking is a problem. However, I believe it is correctable. Clark was not asked to run block much in college, as Texas Tech passed the ball with extreme regularity.
Clark is a bit of a project for an NFL coaching staff, but his talent as an offensive lineman is obvious. The Patriots could use some depth at the position, and Clark brings versatility and a whole lot of upside, perhaps even at left tackle.
Next: Five Patriots' Players to Watch