Continuing with eDraft's series of mock drafts focusing on full seven-rounders for each team in the NFL, we take a look at the defending AFC North Champion Cincinnati Bengals, who have three picks in the first two rounds. As most fans in Ohio already know, Cincinnnati has a history of taking best player available in each round as well as troubled assets. This mock will represent that front office philosophy. Remember, as with every mock on eDraft, this is a representation of what we think the Bengals' front office would do; not exactly what we'd do.
First Round: Jonathan Cyprien, Safety, Florida International
See my long-winded explanation of this pick on eDraft’s most recent first-round mock draft. Insight that is sure to blow you away; one way or another.
Second Round: Eddie Lacy, Running Back, Alabama
Despite being forced to miss the combine and Alabama’s Pro Day, Lacy remains the top running back in a class that seems to be deeper than top heavy. While this selection seems to be a bit of a reach early in the second round, I really do like what Lacy brings to the table. He can get in there and grind between the tackles, which will help cincinnati a great deal in short-yardage situations. While Lacy doesn’t possess top-end speed, he does get to his second gear in relatively quick fashion. He is a day-one starter that is a serious upgrade over BenJarvus Green-Ellis.
Second Round: Alec Ogletree, Linebacker, Georgia
Off-field issues aside, I never had a first-round grade on Ogletree. While some will point to decent coverage ability, I see someone that struggles with natural instincts. The Georgia product, however, is an athletic freak and would be a great complement to 2012-rookie performer Vontaze Burfict. In addition, Cincinnati has a history of taking on troubled assets with it working out for the most part.
Third Round: Tharold Simon, Cornerback, Louisiana State
Dre Kirkpatrick can be a true No. 1 cornerback in the NFL. The major issue with him this past season was injuries. Outside of that, Cincinnati struggled getting production from a whole host of veterans on the outside. Heck, even Leon Hall battled a down season and injuries himself. Simon is best suited to play in the slot because of above-average press skills at the line. He will be a solid addition here.
Fourth Round: Cobi Hamilton, Wide Receiver, Arkansas
Marvin Jones never really got it going as a rookie last season and Mohamed Sanu was placed on IR late in the season with a foot injury. Both are high-upside players who could step up in a big way behind A.J. Green this upcoming season. Of course this doesn’t mean that Cincinnati will avoid the wide receiver position in the draft; especially if someone like Hamilton is available in round four. He provides an added dimension down the field. He averaged over 16 yards per reception in four seasons at Arkansas, including a ridiculous 90 reception, 1,300-yard performance as a senior in 2012.
Fifth Round: Malliciah Goodman, Defensive End, Clemson
A perfect fit in Cincinnati’s 4-3 defensive scheme, Goodman is stout against the run and has a solid first move at the point of contact. He can use above-average athleticism and technique to beat slower blockers at the line and hold down the fort against the run for the Bengals’ group of linebackers. Where Goodman struggles, taking on double teams and gaining leverage, Cincinnati can more than make up for it with its solid trio of defensive tackles; led by Geno Atkins.
Sixth Round: Sam Brenner, Guard, Utah
More of a depth pick than anything else. Brenner leaves a whole lot to be desired as it relates to the entirety of his game, but is a solid backup guard option for Cincinnati.
Seventh Round: Collin Klein, Quarterback/Athlete, Kansas State
Will Klein ever make it as a quarterback in the NFL? No. He could, however, be utilized like the New York Jets should have used Tim Tebow this past season. Obviously I am talking about running the read option, taking over under center in short-yardage situations and playing somewhat of a rover on offense. Maybe a better comparison would be Brad Smith with the Buffalo Bills.