1. Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
I mean, come on. This should not be a surprise in any way. This will be one of the least-discussed first selections in recent memory. At least there was remnants of a debate between Kyler Murray and Nick Bosa last year. This year, there will be no drumroll before the Bengals select Joe Burrow.
It makes too much sense. He’s the best option at quarterback, one of Cincy’s biggest needs. He’s an Ohio kid with a background at Ohio State. He has all the leadership characteristics you would need in a franchise quarterback, and this is all before we even get to what he does on the football field.
Burrow’s best trait in my eyes is his pocket presence. It might be thanks to his great offensive line this year, but he can evade pass rushers with his eyes down the field. That makes it nearly impossible for defenders to stay in coverage, leading to the monster plays for 40-plus yards. He also knows when to scramble for the first down, which goes back to his toughness.
I think the person who is selected second might be more talented as an overall prospect, but that does not mean that this is the wrong pick. I think Joe Burrow will have a great career in Cincinnati, and I personally can’t wait to watch.