03-29-2016, 11:47 AM
It's been awhile since I've put one of these together. I will preface this mock by saying that it really doesn't matter what the Bengals do with Dansby or LaFell. It's pretty much a given that the Bengals will go BPA and stay true to their board.
I will also say that I think most of the true value in this draft is going to be found in the late first and second round, so a trade back would be great, but I'm not building that into the draft.
I used ESPN's scouts inc rankings and kept the players within 5 spots of our picks - so, the #19 prospect would be in play for us in the first round (it's Taylor Decker, so it's not a huge consideration).
Round 1
Vernon Butler, DT - Louisiana Tech. I know, I'm shocked as well. But looking at who would be on the board (Floyd, Doctson, Fuller) and the Bengals penchant for not reaching, I think this is the best fit. With Peko and Sims getting up in years and Thompson coming off an injury, I think this is a great time to add one of the most complete DT in the draft.
Round 2
Braxton Miller, WR - Ohio State. While I think there are WRs that could come in and contribute immediately in the slot at this spot, I think the Bengals fill this spot with Miller. He has tremendous upside and gives the Bengals an explosive weapon once (and if) he fully develops.
Round 3
Deion Jones, LB - LSU. I think this pick is a no-brainer. He immediately fills the coverage LB role that Lamur leaves open. He's the first LB the Bengals have had in quite some time that will be able to lock up RBs and TEs in coverage.
Round 4
Shawn Oakman, DE - Baylor. A pick like this would make most people roll their eyes, but in round 4 his athleticism is a good gamble. It's not like he hasn't produced before, he did have double digit sacks a year ago. I don't see Margus Hunt on the roster after this year, and Oakman is nice piece to work with. He should benefit from MJ and Dunlap.
Round 5
Robert Aguayo, K - Florida State. One of the most reliable kickers in NCAA history. The new rule with touchbacks starting at the 25 this year will encourage more short kickoffs, so his lack of kickoff leg strength won't be an issue.
Round 6
Keyarris Garrett, WR - Tulsa. At this point I'm just looking for high reward type guys. He's one.
Round 7
Erik Striker, LB - OU. Another guy that could fit a need rushing the passer.
I will also say that I think most of the true value in this draft is going to be found in the late first and second round, so a trade back would be great, but I'm not building that into the draft.
I used ESPN's scouts inc rankings and kept the players within 5 spots of our picks - so, the #19 prospect would be in play for us in the first round (it's Taylor Decker, so it's not a huge consideration).
Round 1
Vernon Butler, DT - Louisiana Tech. I know, I'm shocked as well. But looking at who would be on the board (Floyd, Doctson, Fuller) and the Bengals penchant for not reaching, I think this is the best fit. With Peko and Sims getting up in years and Thompson coming off an injury, I think this is a great time to add one of the most complete DT in the draft.
Round 2
Braxton Miller, WR - Ohio State. While I think there are WRs that could come in and contribute immediately in the slot at this spot, I think the Bengals fill this spot with Miller. He has tremendous upside and gives the Bengals an explosive weapon once (and if) he fully develops.
Round 3
Deion Jones, LB - LSU. I think this pick is a no-brainer. He immediately fills the coverage LB role that Lamur leaves open. He's the first LB the Bengals have had in quite some time that will be able to lock up RBs and TEs in coverage.
Round 4
Shawn Oakman, DE - Baylor. A pick like this would make most people roll their eyes, but in round 4 his athleticism is a good gamble. It's not like he hasn't produced before, he did have double digit sacks a year ago. I don't see Margus Hunt on the roster after this year, and Oakman is nice piece to work with. He should benefit from MJ and Dunlap.
Round 5
Robert Aguayo, K - Florida State. One of the most reliable kickers in NCAA history. The new rule with touchbacks starting at the 25 this year will encourage more short kickoffs, so his lack of kickoff leg strength won't be an issue.
Round 6
Keyarris Garrett, WR - Tulsa. At this point I'm just looking for high reward type guys. He's one.
Round 7
Erik Striker, LB - OU. Another guy that could fit a need rushing the passer.
