2021 NFL Draft: First-Round mock draft using Madden 20 sim for draft order

Rookie quarterback Joe Burrow led the Cincinnati Bengals to a solid 7-9 season in this Madden simulated season. The Bengals are in a position to improve this season and if Burrow can have immediate success, they could improve in a big way. A 7-9 2020 season is realistic and would be a great sign for the Cincinnati Bengals going forward.

Nothing is more important for the Bengals than surrounding Burrow with as many players as possible who can help him reach his ceiling. They are sitting pretty well in the pass-catcher department, but their offensive line could certainly use some work. Getting 2019 first-round pick Jonah Williams back from injury will help the offensive line situation, but there is still plenty of room for improvement.

With the 13th overall pick of this 2021 NFL Draft scenario, the Bengals add to their offensive line mix with the selection of Alex Leatherwood. Leatherwood has been a dominant offensive lineman at Alabama the last two seasons, first shining at right guard and then as their left tackle last season.

Leatherwood is a tough and aggressive blocker who is quick off of the ball and powerful at the point of attack. His ability to get to out in space and attack the second level is impressive, but he also has a strong set of hands that allows him to consistently take care of first-level defenders. Leatherwood is also a stable pass protector who does a great job of keeping his feet moving and protecting against both speed and power rushers.

Leatherwood can let his aggressiveness get the best of him at times, but overall, he is a very good offensive line prospect who should be a stable force up front at the next level. The Alabama product would be a strong immediate contributor for the Bengals whether he plays tackle or guard for the team out of the gate.