Cincinnati Bengals 7-round Mock Draft: Joe Burrow gets another dynamic playmaker; elite corner tops draft

Bengals late-round selections highlighted by intriguing running back

The Bengals look towards the future with the selection of running back Blake Watson.  With Joe Mixon set to hit free agency in 2025, the team will add the depth at the running back position behind Mixon, Chase Brown and Traveon Williams.

With nice size and speed, Watson had an explosive season at Memphis rushing for 1152 yards with 14 touchdowns.  He also hauled in 53 receptions for 480 yards making him an intriguing dual threat running back to add to Burrow’s offense.  He would also spark competition for Mixon and Brown even as a late-round pick.

The Bengals go wide receiver again with the selection of Ainias Smith out of Texas A&M.  In a deep wide receiver class, Smith could be a late-round steal if he is used in a way that allows his talent to stand out. 

As an electric playmaker at Texas A&M, the 5-foot-10, 190-pound wide receiver had 53 receptions with 795 yards and two touchdowns during his senior year.  His versatility and YAC potential will allow him to challenge for a roster spot, but his best path may be special teams as a kickoff returner to start his career.

Dipping into the cornerback talent again, the Bengals conclude the 2024 NFL Draft by selecting Quinton Newsome out of the University of Nebraska.

At 6-foot-1, 185 pounds, Newsome has nice size at the position but will probably be a player who starts his career on the practice squad.  The one thing in Newsome’s favor is he did play opposite Taylor-Britt during their days at Nebraska.  That familiarity could help him transcend his game to the NFL level, but it will take some development.