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The Cincinnati Bengals approach the 2025 NFL Draft with the 17th overall pick and six total selections, aiming to address critical roster gaps, particularly on defense, while bolstering offensive support for quarterback Joe Burrow. After a 9-8 season and missing the playoffs, the Bengals, under head coach Zac Taylor and director of player personnel Duke Tobin, face pressure to maximize Burrow’s MVP-caliber years. Key needs include defensive line (interior and edge), linebacker, offensive guard, and secondary depth, with mock drafts and team priorities reflecting a focus on immediate impact players and long-term starters.
Defensive Line (IDL/EDGE): The Bengals’ defense struggled in 2024, prompting the firing of coordinator Lou Anarumo and the hiring of Al Golden. With Trey Hendrickson’s contract situation uncertain and Myles Murphy yet to emerge, edge rushers like Marshall’s Mike Green, noted for his explosive 17-sack season, and Tennessee’s James Pearce Jr., with an 18.7% pressure rate, are prime first-round targets. Interior linemen like Texas A&M’s Walter Nolen, praised for his 91.6 PFF run-defense grade, and Oregon’s Derrick Harmon, a versatile 6’5”, 310-pound disruptor, are also in play to replace free agent B.J. Hill and add pass-rush juice.
Linebacker: With Germaine Pratt’s trade request and Logan Wilson as the lone established starter, the Bengals seek a linebacker to compete with free agent Oren Burks. Alabama’s Jihaad Campbell, a do-everything defender with 112 tackles and 5 sacks in 2024, is a popular mock draft pick at No. 17, offering speed and versatility. Later rounds could target Clemson’s Barrett Carter for depth.
Offensive Guard: The interior offensive line faltered last season, with Alex Cappa cut and Cordell Volson benched. Alabama’s Tyler Booker, a 6’5”, 325-pound mauler with high football IQ, is a first-round option to solidify the line and protect Burrow. Georgia’s Tate Ratledge is a second-round possibility for immediate starting potential.
Secondary and Other Needs: Georgia safety Malaki Starks and Michigan cornerback Will Johnson are linked to Cincinnati to bolster the backfield, addressing a need for playmakers opposite Cam Taylor-Britt. While wide receiver and running back are less pressing due to Chase Brown, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, Ohio State’s Luther Burden III, Michigan's Colston Loveland or Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty could be considered for offensive balance.
The Bengals’ draft strategy hinges on landing defensive difference-makers and offensive line stability to return to playoff contention.
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