5 Realistic Offensive Linemen Options for Buccaneers in 2015 NFL Draft

Oct 11, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Laken Tomlinson (77) blocks against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the second quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Laken Tomlinson, G, Duke

Height: 6’3″
Weight: 330 lbs.
Year: Senior

Similar to Cameron Erving, Duke’s Laken Tomlinson has first-round potential, but may find himself slipping into the second round. At 6’3″, 330 pounds, Tomlinson is a big man, which is a good and bad thing.

The good thing is LT—too soon, right?—can match up with any defensive lineman physically. The bad part comes when you ask him to become more mobile, like moving onto the next level or pulling backside in a run block, because carrying around that frame presents limited quickness. Still, there are aspects of his game that set him apart from the rest of the pack.

After four years as the Blue Devils’ starting right guard, Tomlinson knows the position very well. This past season, the 23-year-old was Duke’s senior captain. He’s a leader and with the current Bucs’ offensive line getting up there in years, the organization needs a young player to learn to take the reins and lead this next level of talent for the future. Tomlinson can be that guy.