The Cincinnati Bengals want to build on their impressive offseason with a strong performance in the 2024 NFL Draft. While the Bengals filled most of their biggest voids in free agency, Cincinnati will have plenty of options with the No. 18 pick in the first round.
Cincinnati Bengals News Today
NFL Network Draft Analyst Daniel Jeremiah held his annual pre-draft call with reporters on Wednesday. Jeremiah discussed the Bengals and their potential options in the 2024 NFL Draft. He even mentioned that one popular target for Cincinnati in mock drafts might not fall to No. 18.
All of that and more in today’s Bengals news!
Daniel Jeremiah Says Popular Bengals Mock Target Could Be a Pipe Dream
Following the departure of D.J. Reader in free agency, many have Cincinnati selecting Texas defensive tackle Byron Murphy II in recent mock drafts. However, Jeremiah believes that there’s a chance Murphy won’t be available when the Bengals are on the clock.
Jeremiah believes the growing value of pass-rushing defensive tackles could cause Murphy to be selected significantly higher than many people expect.
READ MORE: Byron Murphy II May Not Last Until No. 18
Jeremiah Talks Bengals, Brock Bowers, and More
Jeremiah also discussed several other scenarios for the Bengals in the 2024 NFL Draft. He mentioned that the “throw a parade” scenario for Cincinnati would be Georgia tight end Brock Bowers somehow falling to them with the No. 18 pick. Bowers is much more than just a tight end, given his ability to make plays and gain yards after the catch.
CONTINUE READING: Daniel Jeremiah Discusses Cincinnati’s Potential Targets
Josiah Caswell’s 3-Round 2024 NFL Mock Draft: Bengals Find Their Future Offensive Tackle
Jeremiah also discussed the possibility of Washington offensive lineman Troy Fautanu heading to Cincinnati at No. 18.
In fact, in his latest mock draft, Pro Football Network’s Josiah Caswell has the Bengals selecting Fautanu in the first round. Jeremiah mentioned that Fautanu is a player he believes can play anywhere along the offensive line, which would be a valuable addition for the Bengals in 2024 and beyond.
Who do they take on Day 2?
KEEP READING: Pro Football Network’s Latest Mock Draft
Bengals Host Former Basketball Player on Pre-Draft Visit
As the Bengals look to build depth along their offensive line, they’re taking a closer look at one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Cincinnati hosted former basketball player Bayron Matos on a pre-draft visit on Wednesday. As everyone looks for the next version of Jordan Mailata at offensive tackle, Cincinnati is certainly intrigued by the potential of Matos as he makes a switch from the hardwood to the football field.
RELATED: PFN’s 2024 NFL Draft Big Board
Bengals Host Arkansas Edge Rusher Trajan Jeffcoat on Pre-Draft Visit
While the Bengals have one of the best edge rushing duos in the NFL, that isn’t stopping them from looking at potential depth in the trenches. Cincinnati reportedly hosted Arkansas edge rusher Trajan Jeffcoat on a pre-draft visit.
Jeffcoat is projected to be selected on the third day of the 2024 NFL Draft or potentially go undrafted. The Bengals could look to sign Jeffcoat as a priority free agent following the conclusion of Day 3.
READ MORE: Top EDGEs in the 2024 NFL Draft