***2023 NFL Draft Thread***

[sandwedge]

(04-29-2023, 10:05 AM)Nepa Wrote: For those think the Bengals selected players who will compete for starting positions in 2023, here is some of the comments from Bengals staff and Ben Baby, who covers the Bengals for ESPN:

Jordon Battle: "Is this pick for depth? Yes. When asked if Battle could potentially be a starter down the line, Bengals coach Zac Taylor said that wasn't something he would ever rule out but it's clear that Battle will be featured in a reserve role for the foreseeable future. ... Battle ... will be a rotational player on defense and get significant reps on special teams."

DJ Turner: "Turner shouldn't be a starter from Day 1. While the timetable is still uncertain for his return, Awuzie is recovering well from an ACL injury. Bengals coach Zac Taylor said that Turner will give depth as an inside and outside cornerback in 2023."

Myles Murphy: "Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo is going to get Murphy on the field often as a rookie. Anarumo said Murphy will feature in the team's third-down packages, which will allow him to be a designated pass rusher. This scenario gives Murphy a chance to learn the ropes as a rookie before potentially slotting into a starting role down the road."

These are picks for rotations, depth, special teams, and starting roles in the future, not upgrades of starters for the 2023 season.

It is all the more reason to laugh at people that get all upset, when we are forced to trot out players that are 3rd or 4th on the depth chart. Players that we watch get torched play after play and then we complain about the lack of depth. I think so far in this draft we have taken care of that problem. These guy should all be starters in a season or two.