It seems highly likely that the Cincinnati Bengals will choose Georgia tight end Brock Bowers if he is still on the board at the 18th overall pick. Many sources indicate that it is almost a certainty at this stage. Numerous mock drafts have identified the 18th pick as the lowest position where Bowers is expected to be drafted. Analysts discussing the team talk about him as if he is already a part of the Bengals roster. Fans are even creating images of him alongside Bengals players, reminiscent of how Marvel YouTubers insert Hollywood stars into fan-fiction posters for upcoming Avengers movies.

Pro Football Focus has also contributed to the speculation by projecting Bowers to be picked by the Bengals in their latest mock draft. It appears that even PFF is engaging in a bit of their own fan fiction with this selection.

Nonetheless, there is a chance that Bowers may not end up with the Bengals. It is possible that another team, swept up in the excitement surrounding him, might pick him instead. In such a scenario, Cincinnati could decide to choose a player for their offensive or defensive line.

If this unfolds, what alternatives are there that could deliver a similar impact to what the Georgia tight end would bring to Cincinnati? Here are three players in the 2024 NFL draft who could offer some of the attributes Bowers brings without the high cost of a first-round selection.

Jaheim Bell from Florida State

For an additional versatile tight end option that could serve as a potential weapon for the offense, consider Florida State’s Jaheim Bell. Bell showcased his flexibility by lining up in various positions for the Seminoles, including in-line tight end, fullback, wing, running back, and receiver, with a significant amount of time spent playing out wide.

Drawing comparisons to a previous target of interest for the Bengals in last year’s draft, 49ers tight end Brayden Willis, Bell stands out for his diverse skill set. Unlike Willis, Bell had fewer opportunities for pass-blocking in college, and his selection in the draft would require a higher capital investment.

Fans can anticipate excitement from Bell’s performance particularly when he takes on roles in the slot and as a receiver. His strong suit lies in his reliable hands and confident pass-catching ability, along with his skill in gaining yards after the catch. In the passing game, consider him more as a “scat receiver” than a “physical presence.

Bell has demonstrated the ability to find openings beneath the coverage and surpass even starting cornerbacks with his speed. These talents have been evident since his time at South Carolina.

When it comes to blocking, Bell shines both in direct confrontations and in open spaces. However, there is room for improvement in his pass protection and ability to recognize blitz situations, positioning him third in this aspect.

Pro Football Focus places Bell at 175, while Mock Draft Database ranks him slightly higher at 165. Regardless, it is essential for Cincinnati to aim for this skilled and adaptable tight end in the fifth round if he remains on the board at pick No. 49 and the Bengals do not select Bowers in the initial round.