NC State DT Brandon Cleveland Emerges as Potential Late-Round Target for Packers

The 6-3, 307-pound defensive tackle could provide depth and run-stopping ability to Green Bay's defensive line.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 9:20pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the explosive movement and power of a defensive tackle making a tackle, using bold colors and angular shapes to capture the intensity of the action.A cubist interpretation of a Packers defensive tackle disrupting the run game, hinting at the potential impact a player like Brandon Cleveland could have in Green Bay's defensive line rotation.Today in Raleigh

The Green Bay Packers addressed their defensive tackle position by signing veteran Javon Hargrave, but they may still look to add more depth at the position in the 2026 NFL Draft. One potential late-round target is NC State defensive tackle Brandon Cleveland, who checks in at No. 22 in the Unpacking Future Packers Countdown. Cleveland, a Florida native, was an important leader for the Wolfpack defense and excelled at plugging running lanes despite not always stuffing the stat sheet.

Why it matters

With Devonte Wyatt coming off a season-ending injury and both Wyatt and Karl Brooks entering the final year of their rookie contracts, the Packers could use some additional reinforcements along the defensive interior. Cleveland's ability to control his gap and disrupt the run game could make him an ideal target for Green Bay late on Day 3 of the draft.

The details

At 6-3 and 307 pounds, Cleveland is a stout defensive tackle who uses his quick first step, active hands, and strong anticipation to clog running lanes. While he may not have the deepest pass-rushing arsenal, he has the power to push the pocket and recorded a career-high two sacks in 2025. NC State beat writer Tucker Sennett noted that Cleveland's presence was a deterrent for opposing running games due to his size and ability to plug holes quickly.

  • Cleveland recorded 4.5 tackles for loss and three sacks in 2023.
  • In 2024, Cleveland recorded 3.5 tackles for loss.
  • During his final season at NC State in 2025, Cleveland recorded seven tackles for loss and two sacks.

The players

Brandon Cleveland

A 6-3, 307-pound defensive tackle from NC State who was an important leader for the Wolfpack defense, excelling at plugging running lanes despite not always stuffing the stat sheet.

Javon Hargrave

A veteran defensive tackle who the Packers signed to a two-year deal, bolstering the interior of their defensive line.

Devonte Wyatt

A Packers defensive tackle who is coming off a season-ending injury and entering the final year of his rookie contract.

Karl Brooks

A Packers defensive tackle who is entering the final year of his rookie contract.

Tucker Sennett

An NC State beat writer for Wolfpack on SI who provided insights on Brandon Cleveland's play and leadership for the Wolfpack.

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What they’re saying

“As one of the veteran members of the defense, Cleveland was an important leader for the team. He helped mentor some of the younger members of the interior defensive line group, despite being a quieter guy himself. While he didn't stuff the stat sheet always, his presence was a deterrent to opposing running backs a lot, simply because of his size and ability to plug holes quickly. He'll be tough to replace in Raleigh.”

— Tucker Sennett, NC State beat writer for Wolfpack on SI

“Cleveland has the body to be more effective against the pass, but just needs more work and reps as a pass rusher to really be considered valuable there. He showed the ability a few times for sure, but he has to work on his speed even more if he wants to lift his ceiling as a pass rusher. That being said, he might benefit from being alongside better players in that area.”

— Tucker Sennett, NC State beat writer for Wolfpack on SI

What’s next

The Packers will continue to evaluate defensive tackle prospects leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, with Cleveland potentially emerging as a late-round target to provide depth and run-stopping ability to their defensive line.

The takeaway

By adding Brandon Cleveland late in the draft, the Packers could bolster their defensive tackle depth with a player who excels at plugging running lanes and has the potential to develop further as a pass rusher. Cleveland's leadership and motor make him an intriguing developmental prospect who could carve out a role in Green Bay's rotation.