LSU didn’t have a first-round pick in this year’s draft, but based on recent mocks, LSU could be returning to the first round in 2024.

In CBS Sports’ first 2024 mock draft, LSU defensive tackle Maason Smith is slated at 14 to the Chicago Bears. CBS calls Smith a “high-floor prospect.”

Despite missing all but a few drives of 2022 with a knee injury, Smith is still generating hype this fall. He was expected to break out last year. The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman put Smith on his list of annual freaks in 2022.

Feldman called Smith one of “the most gifted players in college football” and mentioned that Smith has been tracked close to 20 miles per hour with an 11 feet vertical.

Whether Smith has retained that athleticism following the injury is yet to be seen on the field, but if he’s the same guy he was, the combo of speed and athleticism have Smith poised to be a dominant defender.

With a good year, Smith could shoot into the top 10.

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Story originally appeared on LSU Tigers Wire