Defense, TE are among Bengals’ draft priorities
After signing three offensive line starters in free agency, the Cincinnati Bengals enter the NFL draft with a lot of flexibility and without many glaring needs.
As the Thursday draft nears closer, here’s a closer look at where the Bengals are picking, positions of need and top prospects at those positions. Bengals’ needs Cornerback: The Bengals return all three starters at cornerback from the 2021 season, but Eli Apple could be replaced.
Edge:ahead of the 2021 season, defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo was banking on having Joseph Ossai in the rush plan every week. Ossai suffered a season-ending knee injury during the preseason and was unable to play. Even though he’s expected to be back fully healthy for the upcoming season, the Bengals could still benefit from a fourth edge rusher to mix in the rotation with Sam Hubbard, Trey Hendrickson and Ossai.
Safety: Vonn Bell is entering the final year of his deal and Jessie Bates’ future with the team after the 2022 season is up in the air. The Bengals will likely add a safety to serve as a backup for Bell and Bates next season before becoming a starter.
Interior defensive line:the Bengals re-signed B.J. Hill but let Larry Ogunjobi hit the free agent market. Another starter is needed to plug in behind Hill.
Tight end: Former first-round pick Hayden Hurst signed a one-year deal with the Bengals in free agency and will enter the season as the projected starter. Behind Hurst, the Bengals need to add another pass-catching tight end.
Picks:
Round 1: No. 31; Round 2: No. 63; Round 3: No. 95; Round 4: No. 136; Round 5: No. 174; Round 6: No. 209; Round 7: No. 252