Cincinnati Bengals: Potential first-round targets in 2021 NFL Draft

Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida

This one may seem like a wild card but many believe Kyle Pitts is the best player not named Trevor Lawrence in this draft class. The former Florida Gator was as dominant as it gets against SEC competition and finished his career with an even 100 catches, 18 touchdowns, and nearly 1,500 yards in just 24 career games. His play has his name being discussed as one of the most highly sought-after tight end prospects in NFL Draft history and for good reason.

He’s got the best hands of any pass catcher in the 2021 NFL Draft, and his size paired with his incredible athleticism make him one of the most uniquely skilled players I’ve ever seen at the position. More of a receiving weapon than he is your average tight end, Pitts’ versatility is where his value skyrockets. He can line up out wide, in the slot, or put his hand in the dirt and beat you. A long strider with the elusiveness of a wide receiver, Kyle Pitts is the type of weapon that could elevate any offense.

As their roster stands now, the Cincinnati Bengals’ top targets at tight end are Drew Sample and C.J. Uzomah. Sample is more of a traditional in-line tight end that is used mostly as a blocker, and Uzomah is coming off of a torn Achilles.

Taking Pitts with the fifth pick of the 2021 NFL Draft would be a surprise to many, but there is no denying he would make an instant impact that would give Joe Burrow one of the most talented young receiving corps in the NFL.