Draft rumors pegging Ja’Marr Chase to the Bengals and what that means for the Lions

Jeff Risdon
·1 min read
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LSU wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase has been one of the most common projections for the Detroit Lions at the No. 7 pick. But the latest draft smoke signals say the standout prospect won’t make it that far.

There is a growing consensus that the Cincinnati Bengals will take Chase at No. 5 overall. This would reunite Chase with his LSU quarterback, Joe Burrow. That combination set the SEC record for passing yards and touchdowns in a season in the Tigers’ national championship run in 2019.

What does that mean for the Lions?

For months, Oregon OT Penei Sewell has been the widespread projection for the Bengals at No. 5. If they don’t take Sewell, he almost certainly will be available for the Lions at No. 7. Miami traded up to pick No. 6 and they have a 2020 first-round offensive tackle, Austin Jackson, already on the roster.

Bengals closing in on Ja’Marr Chase over Penei Sewell at No. 5?

Sewell has been working out at right tackle lately after playing left tackle at Oregon, and that’s where the Lions need help along the offensive line. It’s certainly worth considering Sewell as a viable option for Detroit at No. 7–and it’s more likely if Chase is off the board already.

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