The Bengals picked Ja'Marr Chase fifth in 2021, a choice that impacted both teams' futures.

In the 2021 NFL Draft, the Cincinnati Bengals selected wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase with the 5th overall pick, passing on offensive tackle Penei Sewell, who was later chosen by the Detroit Lions at No. 15. This decision reshaped the Lions' roster construction and long-term planning, as Sewell became a cornerstone on their offensive line, while Chase quickly emerged as a top receiver for the Bengals.