2016 NFL Draft Big Board: December Update
By Jon Dove
Dec 31, 2014; Atlanta , GA, USA; Mississippi Rebels offensive lineman Laremy Tunsil (78) prepares to block TCU Horned Frogs defensive tackle Terrell Lathan (90) during the first quarter in the 2014 Peach Bowl at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
2. Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss
Keeping the quarterback upright, healthy and comfortable is high on every franchise’s priority list. This is why there’s such a value put on the left tackle position. Ole Miss’s Laremy Tunsil is my top rated offensive tackle and is an elite pass protector.
Tunsil is an elite athlete who not only has straight-line quickness but also can easily change direction. He uses his fluid movements to mirror the pass rush and adjust to counter moves. His foot speed is what allows him to protect the edge and keep those speed rushers out of the backfield.
This is a player who is ready to step in from day one and immediately improve an offensive line. His skill set is ideal for the left tackle position which means whatever team drafts him shouldn’t mess around lining him up on the right side.
The only concern surrounding Tunsil’s game is his overall strength and power. He’s more of a finesse player and doesn’t do a great job driving defenders off the line of scrimmage. This makes him a better fit for a zone-blocking scheme where he can use his athleticism to his advantage.
However, his strength should improve after getting into a NFL conditioning program. You can’t dramatically improve someone’s athleticism but adding strength is a matter of putting in some extra work.
Next: No. 3 Jaylon Smith