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NFL Mock Draft: Bengals take Ohio State star in USA Today's latest

From Columbus to Cincinnati? The Bengals could certainly use a guy who can stretch the field.

By Jason Marcum

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Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Through two weeks of NFL free agency, the Bengals have yet to add another wide receiver.

Are they content with Mohamed Sanu and Marvin Jones paired with A.J. Green? Sanu went MIA the second half of last season while Jones missed the whole year with foot and ankle injuries. Not to mention Sanu and Jones are both free agents in 2016, and this is arguably one of the thinnest positions on a fairly talented Bengals roster.

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That might explain why Nate Davis of USA Today Sports has Cincinnati taking a receiver with the 21st-overall pick. However, with Amari Cooper, Kevin White, DeVante Parker and Jaelen Strong off the board, Ohio State's Devin Smith might be the best WR on the board at pick No. 21.

That's why Davis mocked Smith to the Bengals with their first pick:

21. Cincinnati Bengals — Ohio State WR Devin Smith: If local blazer can avoid outrunning QB Andy Dalton's arm, he could provide dynamic element that penalizes defenses for focusing on WR A.J. Green and RB Jeremy Hill.

Smith's biggest strength is his ability to stretch the field, something no one other than Green is capable of, and he's usually got two guys on him anytime he runs a deep route. Having another guy to get deep could help take that pressure off Green, but Smith might not be worth a first-round pick.

Smith had just 121 career receptions, but 25% of them (30) went for TDs while averaging 20.7 yards per catch. He certainly would give the Bengals what they need in a receiver, but this is probably too high for Smith.

It is worth noting head coach Marvin Lewis did attend Ohio State's Pro Day, so the interest between the Bengals and Smith could be there.

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