04-29-2017, 08:31 PM
(04-29-2017, 08:00 PM)TheCincinnatiKid Wrote: Another strong draft. I wasn't completely sold on the Ross pick at #9, but in combination with our later picks I think this more than made sense. If we don't fix the OL, then just load up on guys for Andy to throw to. Ross/Eifert in the short game should really be a force. Boyd, LaFell, AJ.... Andy has some serious firepower to play with.
I'll keep it on the field in terms of Mixon, it's obviously a great pick and a 'steal' in terms of ability. I think he might go on to be our starter as the season goes on. I hope for a redemption story off the field also.
Willis and Lawson are absolute steals for their draft position. Malone makes a stacked offence even more so. Elliot I think was a really shrewd pick as kicker, he is experienced with bad weather kicking and was very reliable in college. Intelligent pick.
The main disappointment is obviously O-Line. I don't think we have a shot at playoff success without a functioning O-Line. I also have not been a fan of our continued lack of focus on the linebackers. I know we have Burfict, but have always felt a strong linebacking corps would take our D to the next level. We didn't really have great options for O-Line in this draft, but we definitely did at LB.
All in all, I think the Bengals should be exciting to watch. I see us putting up a lot of points, but also being a fairly mistake heavy team (no OLine = turnovers). Maybe playoffs, but fun to watch.
(04-29-2017, 08:13 PM)GodFather Wrote: Championships are won at both the offensive and defensive front lines. If that doesn't get done everything behind them is going to have a very hard time succeeding.
I couldn't agree more I'm concerned Dalton won't have the time to get the ball to our receivers. Ross is a deep threat we needed just need Dalton to have the time to get him the ball. Could use him for some screen plays which once again you need o line to block for him. Plus Mixon will need some holes opened for him although he seems like he can adjust and make plays happen. One thing I'd like to see is Bernard and Mixon in a shotgun formation with Dalton. Two backs capable of coming out of the backfield to receive and make plays happen.
