NFL First Round Mock Draft, Seahawks get defensive

Pick #1: Tennessee Titans – Laramy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss

This is as much of a no-brainer as you’re going to get in any draft. The Titans need a franchise left tackle to fortify their offensive line and protect QB Marcus Mariota, and Tunsil is the epitomy of franchise left tackle. A fixture as a starter at LT since he stepped onto campus as a much-heralded recruit (save for the 7 games he was suspended by the NCAA his junior year for receiving “improper benefits), he has ideal size at 6’5” 305 lbs.

He’s long, athletic, and physical, and actually has the frame to add a little more weight. It’s not often you see a player of his overall skill set and athletic gifts who can step right into an NFL huddle and be a star from day one, but look for Tunsil to do just that.

He isn’t perfect, however. He’s had some off field issues and injury issues. Tennessee will have to be assured that his physicals check out and he’ll certainly have to answer for some of his other transgressions in the interview process. But barring any glaring red flags, look for Tunsil to be protecting Mariota’s blind side for many years to come.

Next: On the clock: Cleveland