2027 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Reed Cloutier, OL, Western University

• Name: Reed Cloutier
• Position: OL
• College: Western University
• Height: 6’6
• Weight: 305 lbs.
• Twitter: @reed77007586
• Instagram: @reedcloutier

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2027 NFL Draft?

I bring power, agility and athleticism to the tackle position. My wingspan span (6”10) height (6’6”) and weight (305lbs) allow me to be productive in our heavy run offence, and to lock down the edge in pass protection. My long reach provides needed separation in pass protection.

Tell me about a time you faced adversity and how you responded?

In my first year at Western I had contracted COVID and arrived slightly underweight. It was a challenging start to my time here. With the support of family and coaches I persevered and stayed committed and on course. It made me who I am today.

What role do you see yourself playing at the next level? 

To become a consistent and reliable starter on a professional team and be in a position to empower my teammates.

If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be? 

I would like to support Canadian student athletes to achieve success in their sports and fulfill their education dreams. I would work toward increasing availability and amounts of sports scholarships for Canadian athletes to reduce pressure on our top athletes.

How do you handle coaching, especially criticism or being corrected repeatedly?

It can be sometimes overwhelming, but I know it makes me better. This is the price to pay to rise above and become better everyday.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

My close friend and roommate from day 1, Phil Coté (Centre #50). He is my brother in the trenches, and I respect his commitment and hard work ethic. Both of us are quiet leaders, and we do our talking on the field when the whistle blows. 

If you could have dinner with three people, dead or alive, who would it be and why did you choose them? 

Dead or alive I’m picking Gord Downie, Daniel Alfredsson and Poppa McAlpine (My grandfather) who remains a pillar in my life. 

If you were benched tomorrow, what would be the most likely reason? 

I think it would be bench rotation from the coaches to manage the land and keep the line fresh.

Walk me through your typical pre-game routine?

Wake up, try to get some good food in me, get a couple extra mental reps in on film and head to the stadium. I’m bumping tunes and starting my stretching routine on the field. I’m usually playing the same songs every game, but some days vary.

What scheme do you feel you fit the best in? 

I think I can be effective on both run and pass schemes, but I can best use my height/reach advantage on pass protection.

What is your degree in? 

I am a French literature major at Western’s King College, and will be attending teacher’s college at Western.

What would be the first thing you buy with your first NFL check? 

My parents a cottage, for supporting me 100% throughout my sport journey and always being there for me.

Describe a time in a game where you feel you made a mistake, and explain how you bounced back?

In my first year playing, I had a really rough game at the end of the season. Missed a few assignments and got all in my head. However, that game taught me that I cannot get down on myself for every bad play and that I need to stay level headed.

Name three songs, we can expect on your playlist?

1. Wake me up when September ends.
2. Beautiful Crazy. 
3. Hate it or love it.