Dax Hill and Myles Murphy both look like solid NFL players, but the last time the Cincinnati Bengals truly knocked it out of the park with their first-round pick was when they selected wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase.
Chase was an obvious choice to make with the 5th pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. His arrival in Cincinnati paved the way to a Super Bowl appearance, and he's been named to three Pro Bowls to start his career.
The Bengals may have a chance to add another receiver in the first round of this year's draft from where he played in college. Several experts believe it can and should happen, as well.
LSU WR Brian Thomas Jr. is becoming a popular mock draft selection for the Bengals
Directly below the consensus top three receivers in this year's class is Thomas, one of two LSU wideouts expected to hear his name called the night of April 25. He's one of the fastest and explosive deep threats entering the NFL this year.
That skillset is exactly why three major NFL Draft analysts have mocked Thomas to the Bengals' 18th pick in the last week.
"The Bengals take a receiver who can stretch the field in case the franchise-tagged Tee Higgins is ultimately dealt or isn’t around for the long term. Quarterback Joe Burrow finished his career at LSU before Thomas arrived in Baton Rouge, but a quick connection could be in the making."
"Joe Burrow gets another former LSU standout to throw to. This also gives the Bengals flexibility should Tee Higgins depart next offseason."
"Franchise-tagged receiver Tee Higgins still desires to be traded, and though a deal is not a certainty, it's a reminder that the Bengals have to examine the receiver spot in the draft. Higgins could choose to play out the season and test free agency in 2025 (a double tag is expensive), and the wideout room could become historically expensive if Higgins is extended with Ja'Marr Chase now also extension eligible. Thomas has the best second gear of any wideout in the class, as his effortless ability to separate down the field helped him lead the FBS with 17 receiving touchdowns in 2023."
Outside of what Thomas brings to the table, the Bengals' long-term need at receiver also makes it a logical pick. Tee Higgins is currently disgruntled with the club and has requested a trade. He's slated to play on the franchise tag this season, which makes it likely this is his last year in Cincinnati.
Thomas may not take Higgins' place immediately, but he'd be an ideal replacement in 2025 and beyond. The team has also shown interest in Thomas by meeting with him at the NFL Scouting Combine and attending his pro day.
LSU has treated the Bengals well over the past few years with Chase and Joe Burrow. Thomas is yet another exciting offensive prospect to come out of Baton Rouge that would fit will in Cincinnati.
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