Why did Laremy Tunsil fall down in 2016 NFL Draft? Texans OL lost more than $7 million due to one infamous incident

Atlanta Falcons v Houston Texans
Laremy Tunsil: Atlanta Falcons v Houston Texans

Laremy Tunsil of the Houston Texans was one of the most talked-about players coming out of college. Tunsil was anticipated to be the first overall pick in numerous mock drafts, but his draft stock plummeted after a notorious video surfaced.

He was later drafted with the 13th overall pick by the Miami Dolphins, as teams like the Baltimore Ravens and the Tennessee Titans (who needed an OT) passed on him.

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Due to him getting drafted with the 13th overall pick, Tunsil lost more than $7 million in salary. As per Forbes, Tunsil's expected pay would have been around $20.4 million had he been drafted earlier, as opposed to the $12.4 million he received from the Dolphins.

Prior to the 2016 NFL draft, Tunsil was seen recording himself smoking a bong while wearing a gas mask, and the video quickly went viral on social media. The video massively impacted his draft stock, and ultimately ended up costing him a significant amount of money. However, everything has worked out well for Tunsil since then, and he recently earned himself a new contract as well.


Laremy Tunsil's new contract details

Laremy Tunsil: Jacksonville Jaguars v Houston Texans
Laremy Tunsil: Jacksonville Jaguars v Houston Texans

As per Ian Rapoport, Laremy Tunsil has signed a new 3-year deal worth $75M with $50M fully guaranteed and $60M in total guarantees. He is once again the highest-paid offensive tackle in the history of the NFL.

Tunsil was linked with a move to the Kansas City Chiefs, but the Texans opted to keep their star tackle and begin their preparations for next season.

Wish to determine the path forward for your team next season? Have fun with our 2024 NFL Draft Simulator to bring your franchise back into contention! Experience the thrill of mock drafting as you prepare for the upcoming NFL season!

Texans expected to draft a new quarterback

Bryce Young: NFL Combine
Bryce Young: NFL Combine

The Houston Texans currently have possession of the second overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft. They are expected to draft a quarterback in the draft, and most probably either Bryce Young or C.J. Stroud will be playing for them next season.

The Carolina Panthers traded up to acquire the first overall pick and will be drafting a quarterback. While it is assumed that the Panthers have their eyes set on C.J. Stroud of Ohio State, that could help the Texans in getting their man out of Alabama.

With Laremy Tunsil under contract for the foreseeable future, acquiring a quarterback like Bryce Young might help the Texans rediscover themselves. They may even become contenders, like they were with Deshaun Watson not long ago.


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