The Bengals select Brian Thomas Jr. from LSU and Ja’Tavion Sanders, a tight end from Texas, in ESPN’s most recent 2024 mock draft.
ESPN’s Matt Miller released his most recent mock draft, focusing on the initial two rounds of the NFL Draft. Cincinnati opted for offensive prospects, with Miller predicting LSU wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. to be selected at No. 18 and Texas tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders at Pick 49.
Thomas is widely regarded as the 20th-best player in the class and ranks third among wide receivers, following Marvin Harrision Jr. and Rome Odunze.
According to Miller, “The Bengals are heading into an offseason where both Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd, their wide receivers, are free agents. If Higgins becomes too expensive for Cincinnati, Thomas could be an excellent replacement. With 17 touchdowns in 2023, he led the nation in this category, showcasing impressive length and ball-tracking skills. While he still needs refinement in route running, playing alongside former LSU star Ja’Marr Chase would aid his transition to the professional level.”
Sanders is considered the 56th-ranked player in the class and the second-best tight end.
Miller notes, “Adding Thomas in the first round could address the potential gap at wide receiver for Cincinnati, but it’s important to note that not a single tight end is under contract for next season. Sanders, who primarily operates as a Y tight end rather than an in-line player, excels at exploiting seams in defenses. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 243 pounds, the junior amassed 99 receptions and seven touchdowns over the past two seasons, offering a ready-made option as a flex tight end in the NFL.”
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