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2016 NFL mock draft: Final edition

By Matt Verderame

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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COLUMBUS, OH – SEPTEMBER 13: Taylor Decker
COLUMBUS, OH – SEPTEMBER 13: Taylor Decker /

Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State

Had the Tennessee Titans stayed at the first-overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, they almost certainly would have selected left tackle Laremy Tunsil. The obvious idea is to protect second-year quarterback Marcus Mariota, who was taken No. 2 overall last year and battered to the point of an injured knee. If Tennessee wants to make legitimate strides in 2016, it needs Mariota to be upright.

At this juncture, Tunsil will be long gone but the Titans can still do well for themselves by landing Taylor Decker out of Ohio State University. Decker is a mauling type who can really pave the way in the ground game for the newly-acquired DeMarco Murray. Decker might not be able to slide into the left tackle spot right away, but with Taylor Lewan holding down that position, there is no need for concern.

There really isn’t another obvious way for Tennessee to go with this pick. Some might say a wide receiver fits but that is a luxury pick for a team in desperate need of upgrades. The Titans should hold true to the axiom of building through the trenches and bring in a quality piece with Decker.

Next: Lions on the clock

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