Cleveland Browns: 5 potential 2021 NFL Draft replacements for Odell Beckham Jr.
By Cory Kinnan
DeVonta Smith, Alabama
Alabama has become a factory for NFL talent, but as of late their wide receivers stand out. After seeing two receivers taken in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft, the Crimson Tide will likely have two more taken in the top-32 this upcoming April as well. First it was Henry Ruggs III and Jerry Jeudy this year, now Jaylen Waddle and DeVonta Smith are in like to hear their names called early in the draft.
While Waddle will be long gone by the time the Browns get on the clock, Smith may be within the reach of Andrew Berry and company. While he is not a physically imposing receiver, listed at just 6-foot-0 and 175 pounds, nor is he an outstanding athlete (he can change minds at the combine on this), Smith just finds ways to dominate on the field for the Crimson Tide.
After racking up 1,256 yards receiving and 14 touchdowns on 68 catches a year ago, Smith is off to another blazing start for Alabama in 2020. Through five games this season in Tuscaloosa, Smith has already amassed 556 yards receiving and four touchdowns on 45 catches as he continues to solidify himself as a first round selection in the 2021 NFL Draft.
He will be an analytics darling given his breakout age and production, so he may just be Berry’s cup of tea by the time the draft rolls around.