2016 NFL Mock Draft: Version 2.0
By Jon Dove
Sep 19, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes defensive lineman Joey Bosa (97) tackles Northern Illinois Huskies punter Jake Ambrose on a botched snap during the second quarter at Ohio Stadium. The game is tied 10-10 at half. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
1. Chicago Bears- Jared Goff, QB, California
The Bears landing the top pick in the 2016 NFL Draft would be a blessing in disguise. It would mean that they suffered through a terrible season, but it would allow them to finally move on from Jay Cutler. This decision would be easy because Chicago would replace an ineffective and expensive quarterback with a potential young star.
Jared Goff has the physical tools and continues to show improvement each year. His ability to make quick and sound decisions would be a welcome change for everyone in Chicago.
In-depth Jared Goff Scouting Report
2. Jacksonville Jaguars- Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss
Jacksonville has its presumed franchise quarterback in Blake Bortles and need to put the pieces in place to keep him on the field. The Jaguars offensive line is a concern and the problems start with left tackle Luke Joeckel. This is made a bigger issue because Joeckel is a former No. 2 overall pick.
Despite the investment, Jacksonville needs to move forward by bringing in a top-end tackle prospect like Ole Miss’s Laremy Tunsil. This is a highly athletic left tackle prospect who excels at protecting the quarterback– seems like a perfect fit!
In-depth Laremy Tunsil Scouting Report
3. New Orleans Saints- Joey Bosa, DL, Ohio State
Things are getting ugly in New Orleans and landing the No. 3 pick in the draft will likely bring some wholesale changes. Without knowing what changes could take place it makes sense to go with the best player available. Joey Bosa would bring a toughness and playmaking ability to the defensive front.
Adding Bosa to a group that already features Cameron Jordan, Hau’oli Kikaha and Stephone Anthony gives them the making of a potentially dominant group.
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame
Tampa Bay is hoping that their patch-work offensive line can do enough to keep their new franchise quarterback, Jameis Winston, healthy. However, they need to make improving this group a priority in the offseason. Notre Dame’s Ronnie Stanley would be a great fit to immediately plug in at left tackle.
This would bring added value because it would allow the Buccaneers to move Donovan Smith to right tackle or guard which is a better fit for his skill set.
Next: No. 5 to No. 8