Colts 2016 player preview: Tackle Le’Raven Clark

The Indianapolis Colts will report to training camp on July 26 with their 90-man roster, which will be cut down to 53 players by the end of the preseason. To pass the time until camp, we’re taking a look at every player on the Colts’ 90-man roster. Today, we’re looking at tackle Le’Raven Clark.

Who is he?

In the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft, the Colts selected offensive lineman Le’Raven Clark out of Texas Tech. Clark started all 51 games of his college career, mostly at left tackle. He was also a three-time first-team All-Big 12 selection and a team captain during his senior season. Clark is a talented player, though it likely will take some adjusting to transition to a pro-style offense from Texas Tech’s spread system.

What is his role?

Though a lot of people want a third round pick to contribute right away, that likely won’t be Le’Raven Clark. Again, he’s transitioning to the NFL level and that switch might take a little longer because of the spread system he’s coming from. He has a lot of talent and is physically gifted, which is surely what caught the Colts’ eye and caused them to take the tackle in the third round. With that said, however, he’s likely to play more of a developmental role this year as a depth player instead of an immediate contributor. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as the Colts do need to be thinking toward the future and long-term contributors. The hope is that Clark can be that, but it’s important not to expect too much from him right away.

What are his chances?

He’ll likely make the roster and provide depth, but his rookie season will likely be focused on development.