With the 19th pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, the Miami Dolphins might select Ja’Wuan James, offensive tackle from Tennessee. NFL insider Ian Rapoport tweeted “If they don’t, remember the name Ja’Wuan James from Tennessee RT @KingMcCain14: @RapSheet Dolphins trade up for a tackle.
ThePhinsider, a prominent Miami Dolphins blog, wrote that James could start from day one. “James would be considered a reach to some, but James’ talent is coveted in NFL circles and some even believe he could make the transition over to the left side of the line, a very uncommon shift (former college LTs usually switch to RT). … James would start at RT from day one and eventually become the Dolphins LT if they select him with the 19th pick. If the Dolphins didn’t believe James could play LT in a pinch or own the position after Branden Albert’s eventual departure then selecting him with the 19th pick would be unwise.”
This ESPN Baltimore Ravens draft primer also considers James as someone who could start right away in the NFL. “Good: James has the experience and get-it-done attitude to start immediately in the NFL. He played his entire college career at right tackle, so he addresses the Ravens’ biggest need on the offensive line. His size, strength and arm length is what you want for an offensive tackle. James is known for outstanding character and graduated in December 2013 with a degree in arts and sciences.”
[Forum Discussion: Some discussion of Ja’Wuan James in the first round]