The Bengals build around Burrow in way-too-early 2021 mock draft
Jackson Carman, OT, Clemson
If not in the first round, the Bengals must address the offensive line in the second. After a poor showing on the line in 2019, the front office chose to double down on their group in the 2020 offseason, bringing in journeyman backup Xavier Su’a-Filo and sixth-round pick Hakeem Adeniji as their only additions to the unit.
This show of faith in the line from the staff and front office caused many fans to scratch their heads, wondering what the Bengals saw that they did not. Aside from center Trey Hopkins, the line was a disaster. Although first-round pick Jonah Williams will be making his debut in 2020, he is only one player on a line of five starters. While players such as Michael Jordan and Fred Johnson could breakout in 2020, the offensive line looks to be in dire need of new talent.
Clemson offensive tackle Jackson Carman can be that much-needed injection of talent. Carman lined up at left tackle for the Tigers in 2019 as they made their way to the National Championship, where they went on to suffer their only loss of the season. The tackle’s play was a huge factor in the team’s success. Carman made Pro Football Focus’ All-ACC team and was one of only two ACC tackles with a PFF grade of 76.4 or higher in both pass-blocking and run-blocking.
Additionally, the young offensive tackle is an Ohio native, coming from Youngstown, Ohio. In 2020, the Bengals brought Joe Burrow back to his home state. In 2021, they can bring Carman back to his home state to protect their franchise quarterback.
Deonte Brown, OG, Alabama
After addressing the offensive line in the second round, they do it again in the third. Now that the right tackle position has been worked out with the selection of Carman, the Bengals can focus on the right guard position.
Deonte Brown is a redshirt senior from Alabama who could start right away for the Bengals. The Crimson Tide lineman provides the versatility to play whichever guard spot he is asked. A mauler in the running game, he can open up lanes for the running back. A barrier in pass protection, he can be Burrow’s saving grace when facing tough defensive lines.
With the lack of talent on the offensive line, it makes sense to double up on the unit in the 2nd and 3rd rounds of the draft. If both Carman and Brown work out, the line could be set for years to come.