The Cincinnati Bengals appeared to pass on a chance to coach the 2021 Senior Bowl this year while making changes to the coaching staff.
But it sounds like they will still get to see elite prospect DeVonta Smith at the event.
The Alabama product reeled in the Heisman Trophy this year after putting up 1,856 yards and 23 touchdowns, cementing himself as the potential No. 1 wideout in the class.
It’s incredibly rare for a prospect of Smith’s stature to attend an event like the Senior Bowl at all, to say the least.
From Cincinnati’s perspective, Smith is one of a few viable prospects to target at No. 5. Pairing him with another Heisman winner — Joe Burrow — could pay off big over the long-term. That might seem even more attractive than reuniting Burrow with former LSU teammate Ja’Marr Chase, another top-five candidate.
Offensive line remains on the table too at No. 5, though there is a very real chance Penei Sewell, by far the best tackle prospect, doesn’t fall.
Thanks to a shocker of a development, the Bengals will get an extra, close look at Smith before making the critical decision.
The 2021 Senior Bowl takes place on Jan. 30 at Hancock Whitney Stadium.
#RollTide Welcome WR DeVonta Smith from @AlabamaFTBL the 2021 @Reeses Senior Bowl!!!
😤😤😤 #RTR #BamaFactor#TheDraftStartsInMOBILE @JimNagy_SB @PaniniAmerica #RatedRookie pic.twitter.com/BacvPCOeTN— Reese's Senior Bowl (@seniorbowl) January 18, 2021
