NFL mock draft 2021: Four quarterbacks in the top five, Watson stays put

If Penei Sewell was still on the board at pick five in this 2021 NFL mock draft, the Cincinnati Bengals probably would have made their pick and brought him in. But with Sewell off the board, the Bengals were able to add a couple of valuable picks to move back just a couple of spots.

At pick eight in this NFL mock draft, the Bengals are still able to snag an impactful blocker that many NFL evaluators seem to value right there with Sewell atop the class. I must agree with the evaluation of Northwestern’s Rashawn Slater.

Slater is one of my favorite players in the 2021 NFL mock draft. Like Sewell, he is a dominant force and a well-rounded blocker. Slater also thrives as a run blocker, getting out in space and moving to the next level.

As a pass blocker, Slater uses his agility and heavy hands to keep even the best edge defenders at bay. Slater has thrived against the Big Ten’s best pass rushers, shutting down the likes of Chase Young and more.

For a team like the Cincinnati Bengals, keeping their prized young quarterback, Joe Burrow, healthy and protected is the number one priority. They will go as far as Burrow is able to take them, and if he is off the field injured or constantly facing pressure in his face, that will severely stunt his NFL growth and development.

Many believe that Slater should bump inside to guard if he wants to have All-Pro potential, but I think he has everything that it takes to be a top tackle in the league. Whether the Bengals play him at left tackle, right tackle or guard, he will come in and immediately help and young and growing offensive unit.