Tennessee Titans

Did the Titans GM tip hand on who Tennessee will select first overall?

Published Feb. 24, 2016 3:53 p.m. ET

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The Tennessee Titans have a very interesting decision to make. 

Possessing the first-overall pick, the franchise can go in a number of directions. There are two exceptionally talented defensive end prospects sitting toward the top of every draft board (Joey Bosa, DeForest Buckner). In addition, the team could look towards secondary help in the form of Jalen Ramsey. 

However, last year's pick could dictate the ultimate move for the Titans. Soon-to-be second-year quarterback Marcus Mariota flashed considerable upside and potential. With a great combination of physical traits and leadership skills, he could be the face of the franchise for the next decade (and potentially beyond). 

As such, Tennessee needs to give Mariota every opportunity to succeed at a high level. This includes not only surrounding him with dangerous skill players, but also protecting him from ravenous defensive lines wanting to attack with consistent pressure. 

Mariota was battered last year -- as evidenced by the fact Tennessee ranked dead-last in sacks allowed per game. Fortunately for the Titans, one of the best tackle prospects in recent memory is available for selection in this draft. 

Ole Miss tackle Laremy Tunsil is an exceptionally gifted athlete. He has virtually all the traits one would want in a prototype left tackle -- including a wide base, long arms, natural lower-half strength, and terrific lateral quickness. 

With Tunsil an appetizing option at No. 1 -- coupled with Tennessee's need to protect Mariota -- it's no surprise he's drawing immense interest from the front office brass. In fact, general manager Jon Robinson may have revealed his draft hand during an event with Titans season ticket holders. 

When speaking about his philosophy for building a team, he directly pointed to the need of protecting his quarterback -- something illustrated during the Denver Broncos' win over the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50.

"If you look at the Super Bowl, really the outcome of that game was decided by the lines. Denver, they beat Carolina's line and they got to Cam (Newton)," said Robinson on Tennessee's official website. "Denver's line was able to hold off Carolina's rush, Peyton (Manning) stayed upright, and he was able to get the ball out and Denver wins the Super Bowl."

If those comments are any indication, Tunsil may ultimately end up as the top pick in this year's draft. 

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