In this paper, progressive failure and collapse of jointed rock mass is analyzed based on discrete element method. Rock mass is represented by a dense packing of non-uniform-sized circular particles bonded together at their contact points. Failure is represented by broken bonds, which form and coalesce into macroscopic fractures when load is applied. In the modeling, the strength deterioration is controlled by its current stress state. A threshold is defined for the initiation of strength deterioration and a lower limit for circumscription of the strength deterioration. The model is verified with uniaxial compression test data of schistose rock. Then it is employed in a two-dimensional simulation of Eastern Qinling tunnel. The failure behavior of Eastern Qinling tunnel collapse is analyzed and discussed. The results from discrete element modeling agree well with the observations from real tunnel collapse. It is found that the model can reproduce the features of rock mass behavior, such as progressive failure, fragmentation and collapse.