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2016 NFL Draft: 5 Risky Picks for the 49ers

By Trevor Irvine

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell addresses the crowd in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell addresses the crowd in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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Laremy Tunsil — Left Tackle (University of Mississippi)

Offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil is considered the best tackle available in the draft. He was considered to be the best candidate for the No. 1 overall pick to the Tennessee Titans until they traded away the pick to the Rams.

The 49ers need help on the offensive line. Other than left tackle Joe Staley and center Daniel Kilgore, the rest of the line was a mess. Guard Alex Boone is gone, and the less said of Jordan Devey and Erik Pears the better. Replacements in Andrew Tiller and Trent Brown showed good promise late in the season when they were given the chance to perform.

The line needs a big influx of talent, and Tunsil would fit the bill. He is a tremendous mix of size (6’5″, 312 pounds), arm length (34 inches) and strength (34 reps of 225 pounds). And his feet are his biggest assets, where he moves side to side effortlessly and holds his position against the opposing pass-rusher with ease. There is a good chance he could be available at No. 7 when the 49ers are currently slated to pick.

However, Tunsil comes with some injury and character concerns. He did play in every game in his rookie season in 2013, but he missed two games in 2014 with a partially torn bicep, and then in the Peach Bowl he suffered a fractured leg.

Last season, he was suspended for the first seven games of the season by the NCAA for accepting improper benefits from agents. He did finish the season strong, but this poor decision brings into question his maturity. Combined with the injuries, the 49ers need to think hard and strong about whether he is worth the No. 7 overall pick.

Though he might be the most talented, there are other tackles in this draft who don’t carry the same baggage.

Next: Myles Jack