2016 NFL Draft Big Board: Post Week 1 Update
By Jon Dove
Sep 5, 2015; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears quarterback Jared Goff (16) looks to throw the ball against the Grambling State Tigers during the first quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
4. Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss
Tunsil has yet to take the field this season because of an NCAA investigation, but that doesn’t have a major impact on his draft stock. This is an elite pass protector who should be able to step in from day one and contribute. His athleticism and quickness is what separates him from the pack.
He is able to shuffle his feet to protect the edge while remaining balanced enough to adjust to counter moves. Tunsil needs to improve his strength and show he can drive defenders off the line of scrimmage or he risks getting pegged as more of a fit for a zone-blocking scheme.
In-depth Laremy Tunsil Scouting Report
3. Joey Bosa, DL, Ohio State
Bosa excels at wreaking havoc in the offensive backfield in both the run and passing game. He features good size and the lateral quickness to slip past blockers. Bosa’s explosive first step makes him a strong pass-rushing threat either on the edge or up the middle.
His size, speed and strength combination provides him the versatility to fit at defensive end in a 3-4 or 4-3 system.
2. Jaylon Smith, LB, Notre Dame
Smith is one of the more exciting players in all of college football because of his knack for making game-changing plays. He’s an explosive athlete who plays with an edge. Smith is always in purist of the football impacting the game from sideline to sideline. This is a 4-down linebacker who supports the run, holds up in coverage and can play on special teams.
His ability to also generate pressure on the quarterback only adds to his value. Smith is able to make so many impact plays because of his non-stop motor and explosive closing speed.
1. Jared Goff, QB, Cal
Goff has all the tools needed to be a top-level quarterback in the NFL. He features the size, athleticism and throwing arm needed to quickly adjust to the NFL game. However, it’s his sound decision making and quick thinking that is most important. This is a quarterback who can handle pressure and accurate deliver the football to an open target.
The knock on Goff is that he has a thin frame and lacks great arm strength. He appears to have a naturally thin build, but has put on some bulk this offseason. It’s a slight concern but has been durable throughout his college career. Goff doesn’t have elite arm strength but is capable of making all the throws.
He makes up for what he lacks in arm power by driving off his back foot and stepping into his throws. This allows him to generate the necessary zip to all levels of the field.