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Ranking the Bengals’ top options with the No. 5 pick in the draft

By Aaron Burd

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JANUARY 11: DeVonta Smith #6 of the Alabama Crimson Tide celebrates his touchdown during the second quarter of the College Football Playoff National Championship game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Hard Rock Stadium on January 11, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JANUARY 11: DeVonta Smith #6 of the Alabama Crimson Tide celebrates his touchdown during the second quarter of the College Football Playoff National Championship game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Hard Rock Stadium on January 11, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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DeVonta Smith (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

Bengals’ draft option #5: DeVonta Smith, WR, Alabama

Coming in at fifth spot of this ranking is the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, DeVonta Smith. The wide receiver from Alabama torched defenses all season, ending the year with 1,856 receiving yards and 23 receiving touchdowns. Smith was the Crimson Tide’s top player on their way to a National Championship this past season.

Despite his thin frame, Smith is a force at wide receiver. With his solid route running, strong hands, and a great ability to get yards after the catch, the 22-year old receiver would be a dangerous weapon for Joe Burrow.

The Bengals already have two solid receivers in Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd, but will have a need for a third starting receiver with A.J. Green and John Ross III likely to leave in free agency. Smith is one of the two best receivers in this draft and may be the best receiver on the board when it’s the Bengals turn to pick.

For Burrow to reach his full potential, he will need an elite group of playmakers. With Smith, Higgins, and Boyd, the Bengals would have one of the best-receiving trios in the NFL.

However, Smith should not be the Bengals’ top target at wide receiver. There is another receiver from the SEC that will likely be much higher on their board…