NFL Draft Profile: Trevor Downing, Offensive Lineman, Iowa State Cyclones
Trevor Downing
Iowa State Cyclones
#52
Pos: iOL
Ht: 6033
Wt: 6033
Hand: 296
Arm: 900
Wing: 3212
40: 5.35
DOB:3/18/1999
Hometown: Creston, IA
High School: Creston
Eligibility: 2023
One-Liner:
A versatile interior lineman whose skillset is inclusive of multiple run schemes and singled-up protections.
Evaluation:
A versatile fifth-year senior interior lineman whose skillset is inclusive of multiple run schemes and singled-up protections, Downing is the definition of ‘farm strong.’ After starting the previous two seasons at guard, the Iowa native moved to center for his final year. Downing owns terrific size, long physique and solid mass, plus a well-built frame. He generates nice push in the run game due to his lower body power and demonstrates sound technique—he rarely gets pushed back. Downing also flashes the ability to play in both gap and zone run schemes, with adequate physicality and movement skills for both. In pass protection, he understands the value of hand placement and angles. However, he does tend to struggle against upfield rush, threatened by get-off and speed. Known as a grinder, Downing leads by example and coaches say he is most likely to be found in the film room. His positional flexibility bodes well for his chances of sticking at the next level, as he has also played tackle, in addition to all three interior spots. He most likely projects as a day three prospect.
Grade:
6th round.
Quotes:
Trevor Downing made this year’s Senior Bowl watchlist because he’s the type of smart, tough, & dependable Day 3 interior OL that makes it in the NFL.
Jim Nagy, Executive Director of the Reeses Senior Bowl via Twitter.
“I grew up from a young age working on the farm, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. at night. Long days, kind of like football. They kind of go hand in hand.” – Trevor Downing on growing up on the farm
Background:
Originally from Creston, Iowa. Attended Creston High School and was rated as a three-star prospect by 247Sports. Decided to redshirt his freshman year. During redshirt freshman year, started twelve games at left guard. Got injured during the following season and only played in one game. Had an outstanding redshirt junior year, starting all thirteen games. Named on the First Team All-Big 12. During redshirt senior year, made a transition to center and started all twelve games. Named a part of Second-Team All-Big 12. Projected as a third-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
