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2016 NFL Mock Draft: Week 3 edition

By Dani Bostick

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the podium on stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the podium on stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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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
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 /

52. . OT. Ole Miss. Laremy Tunsil. 2. player

The Jacksonville Jaguars’ offensive line has been rather porous in recent years. The team brought on Luke Joeckel as their first-round, second-overall pick in 2013 to ameliorate the situation, but the Jaguars have yet to see a return on that investment, which includes a $21 million contract. Joeckel was initially plagued by injury. When he finally made it on to the field, his performance was mediocre at best. This sad fact leaves the the Jaguars in need of an offensive lineman, and Laremy Tunsil of Ole Miss is a natural choice.

Before discussing his many strengths, it is worth noting that, yes, that is a knee brace in the above picture. Analysts have durability concerns about Tunsil. The Jaguars do not want to find themselves dealing with an underperforming, injured, and expensive first-round pick again. Tunsil was also involved in an incident of domestic violence against his step-father (charges were dropped), who later ratted him out for accepting a ride from an agent, which is a violation of NCAA rules. This current problem seems more about standard NCAA pettiness and less about true corruption, but the investigation is still underway and more details could emerge.

Why might Tunsil be worth the risk? He has been starting since he was a true freshman, a true rarity in NCAA football. At 6’5″ and 320 pounds, he has been a key component of an incredibly productive Ole Miss offense, allowing very few sacks and frustrating defenses across his conference. His prodigious power, vision, and quickness could be just what the Jaguars need.

Next: No. 3 New Orleans Saints

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