Breaking down the Miami Dolphins' 2016 Draft Class: Laremy Tunsil

I apologize for not doing a player breakdown on Laremy Tunsil in the weeks leading up to the draft.  After all, no one ever imagined he would be available when the Dolphins selected at 13.   No matter what the reason for the leaked video, the Miami Dolphins got arguably the best overall player in the 2016 NFL Draft.   Here is a brief breakdown of what fans can expect from the talented offensive lineman.

Who is Laremy Tunsil?

Raised in Lake City, Florida, Laremy Tunsil was born to play the game of football.  The 6’5, 305-pound offensive lineman had a successful high school career at Columbia High.  Here, he received All-State honors for his play at offensive tackle.  In his final game as a senior, Tunsil helped Columbia record 275 yards on the ground.  Despite the godly numbers, Columbia fell short of the state championship.

As a five-star recruit out of high school, Laremy Tunsil received offers from all major BCS schools.  Finally, after months of weighing his options Tunsil committed to the University of Mississippi.  As a freshman in 2013, Tunsil appeared in every game allowing only one sack for the Rebels.  In 2014, Tunsil appeared in 11 games as the Rebels’ starting left tackle.  He would miss games due to a torn bicep in addition to, a fractured fibula.

After rehabbing tirelessly from his fractured fibula, Tunsil was ready to begin the 2015 season.  Unfortunately for Tunsil, things weren’t about to get any easier.  Head Coach Hugh Freeze decided to bench Tunsil after his stepfather accused him of receiving "improper benefits" from a scout.  He would later be suspended by the NCAA for seven games.  Upon returning, Tunsil continued to play at an elite level.  He allowed zero sacks, zero hits and just 5 quarterback hurries in 2015.  Despite never starting a full season at Ole Miss, Tunsil declared for the 2016 NFL draft.

The Good

Laremy Tunsil possesses an elite skill-set that should transition seamlessly to the NFL.  He’s a well-balanced blocker, who uses his strength and quickness to outwork frenzied edge rushers.  Throughout his college career, Tunsil allowed only two sacks at Ole Miss.

Here, you get to see Laremy Tunsil face off against one of college football's best edge rushers.  In fact, heading into this game, Myles Garrett led the NCAA with 8.5 sacks.  Tunsil not only held his own against Garrett, but he prevented the elite pass rusher from adding to his impressive tally.

In this play, you can see how quick Tunsil is off the line of scrimmage.  He slides effortless, preventing the Myles Garrett from getting to the quarterback.

Though Garrett appears to beat Tunsil initially; he regains his balance, driving the defensive end into the turf.  He may not be the biggest or strongest offensive line, but he uses his skills to outwork opposing edge rushers.

Here, Tunsil moves effortlessly from side to side.  He uses his strength to stop the defender dead in his tracks.

and again...

In this play, Tunsil uses his big body to seal off the left side of the offensive line.  In doing so, the running back has a clear lane around the left end resulting in a nice gain.  

Here, Tunsil shows off one of his most underrated skills, his quickness.  Once the ball is snapped, Tunsil explodes off the line.  He proceeds to get in front of the ball carrier, clearing a path for the receiver to follow.

Despite being caught off balance, Tunsil manages to use his strength to toss the defender to the ground.

Even as a tight end, Laremy Tunsil makes everything look easy.  Could Adam Gase dare draw up some trick plays for the rookie offensive lineman?

The Bad

There are very few flaws in Laremy Tunsil's game.  In fact, he might be the most pro-ready prospect in this year's draft.   Off the field issues plagued Tunsil during his last few seasons at Ole Miss.  From the domestic abuse allegations from his stepfather, to the hotel incident with fellow teammate Robert Nkemdiche.  Oh, and let's not forget his past drug use that inevitably caused the elite prospect to plummet.  Whatever the reason, Tunsil must continue to mature if he wants to find success at the next level.

On the field, he must find ways to limit his mental lapses throughout the game.  There are times when Tunsil gets ahead of himself, refusing to allow the play to develop in front of him.  He also has a knack for getting overzealous prior to the snap, resulting in costly penalties.  All of this must be corrected if Laremy Tunsil wants to become the elite offensive lineman many believe he can be.

Health is another concern with Tunsil.  He was banged up often during his collegiate career, something the Dolphins hope to temper with their ever-growing Sports science program.  Miami will have to keep a watchful eye on the 305-pound offensive lineman, who will play a critical role in the Dolphins' organization moving forward.

The Skinny

There is no question, Laremy Tunsil is an elite prospect who will be a day-one starter for the Miami Dolphins.  Whether he begins his professional career at tackle or guard, he will be expected to contribute immediately. During his four-year career, Ryan Tannehill was sacked an astounding 184 times.  The Dolphins' front office hopes this number remains stagnant given their recent addition.  The Dolphins landed arguably the draft's best player in Tunsil, who might already be the team's best offensive line.  Though it is likely he starts his career at guard, he will eventually make the transition to left tackle, protecting Ryan Tannehill's blindside for years to come.

In the end, the Miami Dolphins landed arguably the best player in the 2016 NFL draft.

NOTE:

Maybe Laremy Tunsil will play quarterback?