Bengals select 'big and fast' playmaker in latest mock draft

The Bengals have several playmakers set to become free agents following the 2023 season. That's why CBS Sports' Chris Trapasso has Cincinnati adding to QB Joe Burrow's arsenal in his latest mock draft.

With pick No. 18 in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Trapasso has the Bengals selecting LSU wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr.

"If Tee Higgins bolts in free agency, another sizable and athletic wideout would be sensible for the Bengals offense," Trapasso writes. "I have a feeling Thomas is going to be a riser during the pre-draft process. Big and fast."

If Higgins doesn't return to Cincinnati in 2024, the wide receiver position should be at the top of the team's list. That could very well happen as the 25-year-old will have several suitors after posting 257 receptions for 3,684 yards and 24 touchdowns from 2020-23.

The Bengals deciding to franchise tag Higgins does seem likely if the two sides can't agree on a new contract. But if he doesn't want to play on the tag, he may have played his last snap with Cincinnati.

According to Spotrac, Higgins is expected to receive a four-year, $74.4 million contract ($18.6M per year).

Higgins isn't the only playmaker the Bengals could lose this offseason either. Wide receiver Tyler Boyd is also set to hit the open market following his eighth season.

The 29-year-old has been one of Cincinnati's most consistent players throughout his career. In seven of his eight seasons, Boyd has posted at least 50 catches for 600 yards.

If the Bengals do lose Higgins, Boyd or both, adding another wide receiver like Thomas Jr. almost seems necessary. 

The 21-year-old currently ranks as the fourth-best wide receiver and No. 21 overall prospect on Pro Football Focus' big board after posting 68 receptions for 1,177 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2023.

Pairing Thomas Jr. with Ja'Marr Chase could give the Bengals quite the wide receiver duo for years to come.