Alabama vs. LSU: Top 2021 NFL Draft prospects to watch

Who are the top 2021 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Alabama vs. LSU this weekend?

This matchup between Alabama and LSU may not be as exciting and competitive as usual, but there will be plenty of talent on the field to pay attention to Saturday night. In particular, this could be an important game for 2021 NFL Draft talent.

This LSU team does not have as much top-tier talent as we are used to seeing, but they still have plenty of guys to keep an eye on. The top-ranked Crimson Tide are as loaded as ever and will have an opportunity to shine in an important matchup. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the top 2021 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Alabama vs. LSU this weekend.

DeVonta Smith, WR, Alabama

The marquee matchup in this one will be LSU cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. against Alabama wide receiver DeVonta Smith. We will have to wait another year for Stingley to enter the draft process, but he is undoubtedly a top-notch cornerback who is a worthy competitor for any receiver. That being said, Smith has been absolutely dominant this season and will undoubtedly make life difficult for Stingley and the LSU defense.

Through the first eight games of the season, Smith has hauled in 72 receptions for 1,074 yards and 12 touchdowns. He has been arguably the best offensive weapon in all of college football and undoubtedly has a bright future at the next level. Smith is a smooth and athletic receiver who has elite-level route-running skills and is a dangerous weapon after the catch.

Smith is already a great wide receiver who will likely be a first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. However, a big performance against a guy like Stingley could take Smith’s draft stock to the next level.