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PFF 2026 NFL Draft Guide: Jeff Cladwell NFL projection, advanced stats & scouting report

Scouting report

Caldwell nearly entered a military academy before a last-second scholarship offer from Lindenwood extended his football career. He spent three seasons there, earning Second-Team All-American honors at the FCS level before transferring to Cincinnati for his final season of eligibility.

He passes the “off the bus” test with ease thanks to a 6-foot-4, 210-pound frame. A member of Bruce Feldman’s CFB Freaks List, Caldwell posted an 11-foot-9 broad jump and a 36.5-inch vertical, athletic traits that show up most in the vertical passing game, where he is at his best. He owns a high career average depth of target and strong in-game athleticism scores.

However, his route tree and releases are very basic, which limits his ability to consistently separate despite his physical tools. His catch percentages — both in contested situations and on standard targets — are also below ideal. While he offers a solid baseline as a blocker given his size, he has limited special-teams experience, which could impact his early path to a roster spot.

Player Traits

Route Running
6/10
Hands
4/10
Vertical Ability, long speed
10/10
Release, footwork
5/10
Change-of-direction acceleration
10/10
Change-of-direction flexibility
5/10
Run after the catch/contact
5/10
Play strength, blocking
5/10
Competitive toughness
7/10

Player Traits

  • Route Running: 6/10
  • Hands: 4/10
  • Vertical Ability, long speed: 10/10
  • Release, footwork: 5/10
  • Change-of-direction acceleration: 10/10
  • Change-of-direction flexibility: 5/10
  • Run after the catch/contact: 5/10
  • Play strength, blocking: 5/10
  • Competitive toughness: 7/10

Strengths

Call the Right Play for Every Life Stage. Western & Southern Financial Group.
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