2021 NFL Draft: One perfect prospect for all 32 teams
By Randy Gurzi
Cincinnati Bengals: Ja’Marr Chase, WR, LSU
A lot of these “perfect fits” are going to be good for not just the team but the player as well. And arguably the greatest fit for both player and team in this entire class is the one between Ja’Marr Chase and the Cincinnati Bengals.
With Cincy picking fifth, there are all sorts of calls for them to go with an offensive lineman and there’s no doubt they need to get help there. However, they can still get a talented player in the second round since this class is rather deep on the O-line.
But why should they wait? Simple — Ja’Marr Chase. The LSU wideout is easily the top receiving threat in this class and he proved that in 2019 when he had 1,780 yards on 84 receptions (an insane 21.2 yards per catch) and 20 touchdowns. He did this even though the Tigers also had Justin Jefferson — who was a first-round pick in 2020 — and Terrace Marshall, Jr. — who could be a first-round pick this season.
LSU also had Thaddeus Moss on their team and Clyde Edwards-Helaire who were also eating up touches but Chase still dominated. The biggest reason for that is his rapport with Joe Burrow — who just so happens to be the Bengals’ starting quarterback.
Cincinnati does have a couple of decent receivers in Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd but that doesn’t mean they should be satisfied. With Burrow looking to be the next big thing along with Justin Herbert, the Bengals need to do all they can to guarantee he will be a success, and adding him a receiver he already knows so well is the best way to do that.