The Cincinnati Bengals are approaching a pivotal NFL offseason, especially with one of their star wide receivers, Tee Higgins, set to enter free agency. Higgins’ potential departure would leave a significant void in the Bengals’ receiving corps, prompting speculation about how the team will address this challenge.
One name gaining traction is Emeka Egbuka, a standout wide receiver from Ohio State, who could be a prime target for Cincinnati in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.
Bengals Could Be Eyeing Emeka Egbuka
Egbuka has been a consistent and dynamic playmaker for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Standing 6’1″ and weighing 205 pounds, he provides a blend of size and skill that makes him a formidable presence on the field.
Over his collegiate career, Egbuka had very impressive stats, including 205 receptions, 2,868 receiving yards, and 24 receiving touchdowns, securing his place as Ohio State’s all-time leader in receptions and second in receiving yards.
Egbuka’s journey to the NFL began in Steilacoom, Washington, where he earned the title of Washington’s 2019 Gatorade Player of the Year after recording 83 catches for 1,607 yards and 25 touchdowns as a high school senior. At Ohio State, he continued to shine, with his 2022 season standing out as a highlight.
That year, he notched 74 catches for 1,151 yards and 10 touchdowns, including six games with over 100 receiving yards. Despite facing injuries in 2023, Egbuka rebounded in 2024, leading the team with eight receiving touchdowns and showcasing his resilience and dedication to the game.
Egbuka’s versatility is evident in his ability to excel both outside and in the slot. While he possesses the strength and technical prowess to play on the outside, many analysts believe his talents are best utilized in the slot, where he can leverage his route-running precision and football intelligence.
According to Pro Football Network’s most recent 7-round NFL mock draft, the Bengals are predicted to draft Egbuka in the first round with the 17th overall pick.
Comparisons have been drawn between Egbuka and Detroit Lions superstar Amon-Ra St. Brown, highlighting the former’s potential to make an immediate impact at the professional level.
Could Egbuka Be the Answer for the Bengals?
With the Bengals narrowly missing the playoffs for the second consecutive season, finishing with a 9-8 record, the team is at a crossroads. The potential loss of Higgins amplifies the need for a reliable and dynamic receiving option to complement star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase.
Drafting Egbuka would not only fill the potential void left by Higgins but also provide quarterback Joe Burrow with another dependable target, potentially revitalizing Cincinnati’s offense.
Egbuka’s ability to operate effectively in the slot could open up the playbook, offering more flexibility in offensive schemes and creating mismatches against opposing defenses.
As the draft approaches, the Bengals’ front office will need to weigh their options carefully. While there are multiple areas that could use reinforcement, adding a talent like Egbuka could be a critical move for improving the team’s offensive firepower and positioning them for a return to postseason contention.
