2021 NFL Draft: Five best picks made in the fourth round
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. ECU. player. 56. OT. D'Ante Smith.
2021 NFL Draft: Round 4, 139th overall
You did not have to watch much Cincinnati Bengals football last season to see that they have major needs on the offensive line. They addressed the unit with the second-round selection of Jackson Carman, but that was a pick that many looked at as a reach. However, the Bengals did a nice job of finding value at the position late in the fourth round with the selection of D’Ante Smith.
Smith is a long and athletic offensive tackle prospect who shows obvious upside in pass protection. He is a bit of a raw player who is unlikely to be ready to come in and make an immediate impact for the team, but Smith is undoubtedly a talented player who could grow into a very good starter.
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Expect the Bengals to start Smith out at offensive tackle, and his combination of length and quick feet should allow him to stick on the outside. If nothing else, this pick gives the Bengals some quality depth at an obvious position of need. However, Smith undoubtedly has the skill-set to grow into a quality starter for this team, probably at the right tackle position. The Bengals invest in the development of their franchise quarterback with this late fourth-round selection.