Old school has defined Vikings offensive lineman Ezra Cleveland from the start.
Cleveland, a second-round pick in the NFL draft in April, is named after a 1990s Supercross star, Ezra Lusk, whose speedy style relative to peers is emulated by Cleveland in football.
"I more liked the name," said Jim Cleveland, Ezra's father. "To me, it was different, but also old school at the same time."
Gone, for now, are Cleveland's own motocross days. He is focused on absorbing the NFL's best pass rushers and not tree limbs from a dirt bike.
The Vikings need his blend of modern-day athleticism and old-school durability on the offensive line.