Bengals take WR Burton in 3rd round

The Cincinnati Bengals selected Alabama wide receiver Jermaine Burton in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, No. 80 overall.

Adding a talented Day 2 pass-catcher makes a lot of sense for the Bengals, who saw Tyler Boyd hit free agency this offseason and have yet to sign Tee Higgins to a long-term deal. Cincy placed the franchise tag on Higgins this offseason, and he reportedly requested a trade afterward. The two sides have been negotiating a multi-year contract for months.

Burton set career highs with 798 yards and eight touchdowns in 2023 while averaging a whopping 20.5 yards per reception. He joins a Bengals roster with Ja'Marr Chase and Higgins as Joe Burrow's top wideouts.

Pre-draft profile

Burton never eclipsed 800 yards in college, but he's been a big playmaker with 15 touchdowns over the last two seasons and 20.5 yards per catch in 2023. The Alabama receiver may not be as finished a product as the program's past graduates, but he has a good mix of traits worth noting. Burton utilizes a quick release, often forcing cornerbacks to open up sooner than desired to win routes. His play down the field is even better as he makes catches in tight windows. While his overall route running may need work, he may be able to contribute as a vertical threat quickly thanks to his ability to get a jump off the line and make contested catches.