2021 NFL Draft: Chicago Bears trade up for QB in two-round mock draft
Oregon. player. 56. Offensive Tackle. Penei Sewell. 3. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis
In case you didn’t know, the Cincinnati Bengals found their franchise quarterback atop the 2020 NFL Draft in Joe Burrow. The priority in the 2021 NFL Draft? Protect Burrow and ensure that he stays on the field and healthy going forward.
With the current offensive line, Burrow showed plenty of promising signs before getting knocked out for the season with a knee injury. But if they want to keep Burrow upright and off of IR going forward, they are going to have to address the offensive line.
With a top-three pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, the Bengals would likely have their pick of any non-quarterback prospect that they want. To me, it seems like that best player is Oregon left tackle Penei Sewell.
Last year’s draft saw five offensive tackles get drafted in the top 18 picks. To me, Sewell is better than any of the tackles from last season. Sewell is one of the most well-rounded tackle prospects that I have ever seen.
Sewell is an incredible athlete for a man of his size. He excels out in space, lead-blocking on screens and getting to the next level in the run game. He has a mean streak, finishing one block to the ground then immediately moving to the next defender.
As a pass protector, Sewell is very technically sound. He has smooth footwork and great hands to stay in front of defenders and keep them at bay. He has quick feet and takes great angles to open holes in the run game.
Once engaged, Sewell has powerful hands to dominate and manipulate defenders. He is cerebral to recognize blitzes pre-snap and stunts when they happen mid-play.
Joe Burrow would be a HUGE fan of this pick. Sewell should be stalwart at left tackle for any team that gets him. The Bengals need to set Burrow up for success moving forward and that starts by keeping him healthy and giving him time to throw.