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2017 Miami Dolphins Preview: Laremy Tunsil

By David Eversole

BALTIMORE, MD - DECEMBER 4: Quarterback Ryan Tannehill #17 of the Miami Dolphins drops back while teammate offensive guard Laremy Tunsil #67 blocks against the Baltimore Ravens in the second quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on December 4, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MD - DECEMBER 4: Quarterback Ryan Tannehill #17 of the Miami Dolphins drops back while teammate offensive guard Laremy Tunsil #67 blocks against the Baltimore Ravens in the second quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on December 4, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /
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Laremy Tunsil began his Miami Dolphins career under unusual circumstances to say the least. His well publicized NFL Draft Day does not need to be relived here, but Tunsil went from a potential Top 5 pick to being selected by the Dolphins with the 13th selection in the 2016 NFL Draft.

Tunsil played left tackle in college, however due to veteran Brandon Albert being the established starter at left tackle the Dolphins coaching staff felt Tunsil could begin his rookie campaign at left guard alongside Albert.

Miami was wise in their assessment as Tunsil was a much needed stabilizing presence at guard. Tunsil even filled in two games for Albert at left tackle when Albert was out due to injury. He was a solid contributor for the Dolphins and earned AFC East Rookie of the Year honors from ESPN.

Veteran ESPN Dolphins report James Walker who was one of the voters for AFC East Rookie of the Year had this to say about Tunsil:

"He was very good as a rookie playing out of position at left guard and filling in at his natural left tackle position for a few games when Albert was injured. Tunsil has the makings of a 10-year starter for Miami if he avoids injuries and off-field trouble."

Entering his second season and with Albert being traded away Tunsil is now the clear cut starter at left tackle. His experience playing guard should be a benefit to him in and knowing the inner workings of interior blocking and pass protection will certainly give him an edge.

The Dolphins under Adam Gase established a dominant running attack that featured Jay Ajayi, and before being injured Ryan Tannehill showed tremendous growth under Gase’s tutelage.

His run blocking has room for improvement but his incredible athleticism, strength, and quick feet make him a spectacular pass blocker. Tunsil matches up very well against pass rushing Defensive Ends whether they are bull rushing or attacking from the edge with speed.

Moving back to his natural position at tackle combined with a year of NFL experience should allow Tunsil to take the next step and become an elite player at his position. Tunsil has all of the physical tools to be an All-Pro Left Tackle and the consensus in the Dolphins organization is that he has put any off the field troubles behind him. With him now being the established starter at Left Tackle Tunsil is poised for a tremendous second campaign

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