5. Cincinnati Bengals: Rashawn Slater, OT, Northwestern
The Bengals are surely upset to have missed out on Penei Sewell, but they can rest easy knowing their consolation prize is Slater. Slater is some people’s OT1 thanks to his athleticism and upside and Cincinnati needs reinforcements for their offensive line. Slater is a day one starter at left tackle and allows the Bengals to slide Jonah Williams either to right tackle or inside to one of the guard spots.
6. Philadelphia Eagles: DeVonta Smith, WR, Alabama
The Eagles could’ve had Justin Jefferson last year but instead opted for Jalen Reagor. They need to right that wrong for Jalen Hurts to be successful. Insert DeVonta Smith, a Heisman front-runner and the best wide receiver in this class for my money. Smith may not have any “elite” traits, but he does everything well and can be a team’s top receiver.
7. Detroit Lions: Ja’Marr Chase, WR, LSU
Chase may be underrated thanks to sitting out the 2020 season, but he still goes stride-for-stride with DeVonta Smith for WR1 in the 2021 NFL Draft class. Chase was the 2019 season’s Biletnikoff Award winner after recording 20 touchdown receptions and nearly 1,800-yards. Chase is what the Lions could use in a receiving core in need of an upgrade even if it brings back one of its many free agents.
8. Carolina Panthers: Zach Wilson, QB, BYU
Teddy Bridgewater was adequate in 2020, but he can absolutely be upgraded. Wilson is a perfect fit for what Matt Rhule wants to do offensively and the weapons at his disposal would instantly give the Panthers a top-tier offense. With a healthy Christian McCaffrey and guys like Robby Anderson and D.J. Moore, Wilson could be an Offensive Rookie of the Year heavy-weight favorite.