2021 NFL Draft: Washington trades up for Justin Fields in NFL mock draft
By Kyle Edmond
Pick Analysis. Penei Sewell. 5. player. 56. Scouting Report. OT. Oregon
It was known before the 2020 season started that the Cincinnati Bengals needed to upgrade their protection, but the injury to Joe Burrow was just more emphasis that they need to do it now. A franchise quarterback is great, but he has to stay healthy. If he can’t a whole slew of problems can occur. Look at what happened with Carson Wentz following his ACL injury in Philly.
So, the Bengals need to add offensive line help. Signing Riley Rieff was a step in the right direction, but Rieff hasn’t been the most healthy player in his career and he is probably on the back nine as well. Adding a youthful tackle like Penei Sewell with Jonah Williams on the other side would be ideal for the Bengals.
Sewell is considered one of the best offensive line prospects of the last few drafts, so taking him is a near must for the Bengals if he is available. Putting Burrow behind two strong, young tackles is the best thing for his growth in Cincinnati.
The Bengals haven’t had the best of luck when it comes to first-round offensive linemen, but Sewell is being dubbed as almost a can’t miss prospect. If that’s true, then the Bengals shouldn’t even consider other options if he’s still available with the fifth pick.