At least two NFL Draft prospects from the SEC stopped by Paycor Stadium Monday evening for pre-draft visits with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Former LSU defensive lineman Maason Smith and Ole Miss safety Daijahn Anthony both announced their presence via Instagram.
Anthony posted a picture at Ruth's Chris Steak House, which is located within walking distance of the Bengals' stadium in downtown Cincinnati.
Bengals continue to show interest in Maason Smith
The Bengals have already been around Smith recently. The team sent defensive line coach Marion Hobby down to LSU's pro day last month to see Smith up close.
At 6-5 and 306 pounds with 35" arms, Smith is a physically gifted interior defensive lineman that can play multiple techniques. He was mainly a B-gap defender for the Tigers, but he's also played over the center and can hold up against double teams surprisingly well for his lean frame.
Smith was a five-star recruit out of high school and was on a hot trajectory following his freshman season in 2021. He suffered a season-ending injury at the start of the 2022 season, which effectively derailed his chances of becoming a first round pick. He closed out his LSU career with a solid 2023 season, finishing with an 89th percentile pass-rush grade vs. true pass sets.
At just 21 years of age, Smith projects as a multi-faceted defensive tackle with ample room to grow. He is currently ranked 82nd on the Consensus Big Board, which is two spots away from the Bengals' 80th overall pick. The Bengals also hold the 97th overall pick as a compensatory selection.
Anthony will not be drafted in the third round as he's ranked 330th on the Consensus Big Board. He's likely a priority free agent target for the club. The Bengas have been known to use many of their top 30 visits on Day 3 prospects.
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