2021 Cincinnati Bengals Part II: The Chase is On?

[WVRed]

New thread for when we reach 1,000 in the other.

[oregonred]

The offseason churn continues as Gio Bernard has been released (apparently he asked for his release)

Nothing but class from Gio during his Bengal tenure

I can't remember an offseason with so much veteran/high cap turnover

[RiverRat13]

The purge of Marvin's players continues. Which should have happened last year when these guys had some trade value. Really should have happened once Taylor got the job (could have gotten good picks for Dunlap, Geno, Dalton, etc), but Taylor reportedly got the job in part because he said the roster had more than six wins in it. So instead they do the purge two years and 25 losses later.

[Bob Sheed]

Gio for a bag of footballs would still be better than nothing.

I guess I find it hard to believe no one was offering even a low 7th.

[WVRed]

Might as well throw in three RBs to look at in the draft:

Michael Carter (UNC)
Kenneth Gainwell (Memphis)
Demetric Felton (UCLA)

I like Carter and he looks like a Gio clone but third round is too early to spend on a RB.

[UKFlounder]

Perine is a competent backup RB so they may only need competition for 3rd-string. I say use a 6th or 7th round pick at most, or maybe even find an undrafted guy.

And I think Gio’s salary likely made him untradable. He’s a good player, but expensive for a backup

[WVRed]

Perine is a competent backup RB so they may only need competition for 3rd-string. I say use a 6th or 7th round pick at most, or maybe even find an undrafted guy.

And I think Gio’s salary likely made him untradable. He’s a good player, but expensive for a backup

A scatback who could operate as a pass catcher would take pressure off Mixon and open up the offense. The three listed are really about the only ones who would fit the mold.

Here’s PFF on the RBs:

https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2021-nfl-draft-running-back-rankings

[Kingspoint]

At least the Bengals aren't in a situation where they were when they took Price because the Center they should have taken went one pick ahead of them and the Bengals categorically refuse to trade up in the 1st round to get the correct draft pick, once again letting the draft play them instead of them being aggressive and getting the right pieces from the draft. Whether it's Pitts, Chase, Sewell, or a trade down, they'll come out better than going into the draft. It does seem like they are waiting to add one more Guard until after they see how the draft pans out. Makes sense, as a Tackle they take could play Guard for them right away depending on who they draft.

I don't think they are done in Free Agency concerning the O-Line, but will wait to see how the draft pans out before they make their next move in Free Agency. Wouldn't be surprised if they are listening to offers hoping to turn #5 into multiple quality picks.

[Kingspoint]

We can give the ball to any runningback if the line is good enough. If it's not, it doesn't matter who we put in the backfield.

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A scatback who could operate as a pass catcher would take pressure off Mixon and open up the offense. The three listed are really about the only ones who would fit the mold.

Here’s PFF on the RBs:

https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2021-nfl-draft-running-back-rankings

Mike Renner does a good job on his PFF articles.

[Ohayou]

Might as well throw in three RBs to look at in the draft:

Michael Carter (UNC)
Kenneth Gainwell (Memphis)
Demetric Felton (UCLA)

I like Carter and he looks like a Gio clone but third round is too early to spend on a RB.

I don't think they need to draft a RB at all, but Javian Hawkins out of Louisville would be an interesting prospect in the later rounds. Assuming he's improved his pass-catching ability, he could line up in the slot as well. He reminds me of another Hawkins...no relation.

[RedTeamGo!]

Gio for a bag of footballs would still be better than nothing.

I guess I find it hard to believe no one was offering even a low 7th.

Eh, why trade a 7th for an old RB when you can just use the 7th round pick to draft a young RB with way less wear and tear on him?

[RiverRat13]

I don't know the particulars, but one of The Athletic guys said that the Bengals structured Mixon's contract where they could get out of it after 2021 with little dead cap. So RB may be a little higher than we think it should be. The 5th would be the absolute earliest, IMO.

[oregonred]

Eh, why trade a 7th for an old RB when you can just use the 7th round pick to draft a young RB with way less wear and tear on him?

and selecting a 21/22 yr old 6th or 7th round RB at an ~$600K salary or a 9th year situational RB with a $4.7M cap hit.
.
It's the almost 5M cap hit that negated any realistic trade value for Gio. Without a restructured deal there was no trade market.

[membengal]

IF they take Sewell and Marshall and Bateman are both long gone (like I expect) by their pick in the second round, I would rather they take another o-lineman at 38 than select a WR who profiles to the slot or otherwise reach for a WR who plays the outside but who should go a round or two later.

The depth of this draft at 38 and 69 is at o-line and d-line. IF they go Sewell, they need to lean into that depth and hope to get some project WRs in 4th - 7th rounds.

It is not my preferred course of action, but what they should do if they go Sewell in 1.

As always, no reaching.

[RiverRat13]

IF they take Sewell and Marshall and Bateman are both long gone (like I expect) by their pick in the second round, I would rather they take another o-lineman at 38 than select a WR who profiles to the slot or otherwise reach for a WR who plays the outside but who should go a round or two later.

The depth of this draft at 38 and 69 is at o-line and d-line. IF they go Sewell, they need to lean into that depth and hope to get some project WRs in 4th - 7th rounds.

It is not my preferred course of action, but what they should do if they go Sewell in 1.

As always, no reaching.

If they want offensive line in the first, I'd still prefer to trade back and roll the dice. Even if they go back too far for Sewell, I'd be fine with Slater. Use the extra pick on another offensive lineman in the 2nd.

[bucksfan2]

IF they take Sewell and Marshall and Bateman are both long gone (like I expect) by their pick in the second round, I would rather they take another o-lineman at 38 than select a WR who profiles to the slot or otherwise reach for a WR who plays the outside but who should go a round or two later.

The depth of this draft at 38 and 69 is at o-line and d-line. IF they go Sewell, they need to lean into that depth and hope to get some project WRs in 4th - 7th rounds.

It is not my preferred course of action, but what they should do if they go Sewell in 1.

As always, no reaching.

The reason I am Team Sewell, is I think OT is a bigger need. I don't think they "need" WR, they can use an outside "WR", but I don't think its as pressing.

If you go OL in the first, the entire board is open up for the rest of the draft. If you go WR in the first, you kinda pigeonhole yourself into a OL with the 2nd.

[KoryMac5]

Bengals finally going forward with a Ring of Honor for their retirees...about time and lends credence to the fact that Mike is slowly losing his grip.

Also whether Sewell or Chase this draft is going to be fun...

[Todd Gack]

The reason I am Team Sewell, is I think OT is a bigger need. I don't think they "need" WR, they can use an outside "WR", but I don't think its as pressing.

If you go OL in the first, the entire board is open up for the rest of the draft. If you go WR in the first, you kinda pigeonhole yourself into a OL with the 2nd.

I'm with you. I'm not going to cry if we take Chase. I think he's a fair pick. But I think you're really setting yourself up for an even bigger fall next year if Joey gets beat up again. Don't be the Colts.

[bucksfan2]

I'm with you. I'm not going to cry if we take Chase. I think he's a fair pick. But I think you're really setting yourself up for an even bigger fall next year if Joey gets beat up again. Don't be the Colts.

Dane Brugler has four tackles with a possible first round draft grade. Once you get past the first three, you have guys who profile as a G or T depending on the team.

If you tell me that you can guarantee Chase and Leatherwood, I think I would take that.

However, if you go the route of WR and G, then you still have a gaping hole at T after Reiff.

I think I have resigned myself to the Bengals taking Chase and continue to patchwork the offensive line for the next seasons.

[membengal]

The reason I am Team Sewell, is I think OT is a bigger need. I don't think they "need" WR, they can use an outside "WR", but I don't think its as pressing.

If you go OL in the first, the entire board is open up for the rest of the draft. If you go WR in the first, you kinda pigeonhole yourself into a OL with the 2nd.

There is a fundamental disagreement over need. We literally do NOT have a starting offense because of the hole at WR. We are a base "11" offense. That means we start three wide receivers. Right now that is Higgins/Boyd/??????? . We don't have a starter out wide. You can try and sell me on whatever Mike Thomas is or the battleship Auden Tate, but those are TERRIBLE options. As luck would have it, there is an extraordinary WR prospect who had extraordinary production and backed that up w/ extraordinary testing - and plays the position that is literally missing a player on our offense as we took a pass on WR in FA. We actually have a starting five on offensive line. The tackles are Williams and Reiff. The guards are XSF and Spain. The center is Hopkins (when healed)/Price. There is clearly a need to upgrade on line, but that is at guard.

But you cannot sell me on somehow taking Sewell "opens up" the draft when they would still be heading into the rest of the draft with a gaping chasm of a hole at WR in the WR room.

I am tired of this argument. I get that a lot of folks are super invested in Sewell. He would be great and would probably slot nicely to RG this year and then out to T next year and that would be swell. But pretending that we don't have a massive need at WR is disingenuous and I don't feel like arguing it at this point. It is not as simple as saying "take one in round 2". If you have not spent time studying the draft you won't appreciate how slot heavy the WR group is this year. We don't need slot. So the options at 38 are to hope that Bateman or Marshall fall (they most likely won't) or reach for Dyami Brown. Or wait. There will be REALLY good o-line talent at 38, and in the Sewell at 5 solution, I would rather they hit line again than reach at WR. And, yes, even with WR being a need. No reaching.

That's the last from me on this. I know Todd Gack hates it when I post, so peace out.

[Todd Gack]

There is a fundamental disagreement over need. We literally do NOT have a starting offense because of the hole at WR. We are a base "11" offense. That means we start three wide receivers. Right now that is Higgins/Boyd/??????? . We don't have a starter out wide. You can try and sell me on whatever Mike Thomas is or the battleship Auden Tate, but those are TERRIBLE options. As luck would have it, there is an extraordinary WR prospect who had extraordinary production and backed that up w/ extraordinary testing - and plays the position that is literally missing a player on our offense as we took a pass on WR in FA. We actually have a starting five on offensive line. The tackles are Williams and Reiff. The guards are XSF and Spain. The center is Hopkins (when healed)/Price. There is clearly a need to upgrade on line, but that is at guard.

But you cannot sell me on somehow taking Sewell "opens up" the draft when they would still be heading into the rest of the draft with a gaping chasm of a hole at WR in the WR room.

I am tired of this argument. I get that a lot of folks are super invested in Sewell. He would be great and would probably slot nicely to RG this year and then out to T next year and that would be swell. But pretending that we don't have a massive need at WR is disingenuous and I don't feel like arguing it at this point. It is not as simple as saying "take one in round 2". If you have not spent time studying the draft you won't appreciate how slot heavy the WR group is this year. We don't need slot. So the options at 38 are to hope that Bateman or Marshall fall (they most likely won't) or reach for Dyami Brown. Or wait. There will be REALLY good o-line talent at 38, and in the Sewell at 5 solution, I would rather they hit line again than reach at WR. And, yes, even with WR being a need. No reaching.

That's the last from me on this. I know Todd Gack hates it when I post, so peace out.

I don't hate it when you post. I just think you have an unhealthy obsession with Joe Burrow. And ironically enough you don't even want to make sure he's fully protected from another disaster like last year.

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Dane Brugler has four tackles with a possible first round draft grade. Once you get past the first three, you have guys who profile as a G or T depending on the team.

If you tell me that you can guarantee Chase and Leatherwood, I think I would take that.

However, if you go the route of WR and G, then you still have a gaping hole at T after Reiff.

I think I have resigned myself to the Bengals taking Chase and continue to patchwork the offensive line for the next seasons.

I'm OK with this too. But again, the Bengals are risking an even bigger disaster if they even have 1 big injury on the OL.

[Boss-Hog]

There is a fundamental disagreement over need. We literally do NOT have a starting offense because of the hole at WR. We are a base "11" offense. That means we start three wide receivers. Right now that is Higgins/Boyd/??????? . We don't have a starter out wide. You can try and sell me on whatever Mike Thomas is or the battleship Auden Tate, but those are TERRIBLE options. As luck would have it, there is an extraordinary WR prospect who had extraordinary production and backed that up w/ extraordinary testing - and plays the position that is literally missing a player on our offense as we took a pass on WR in FA. We actually have a starting five on offensive line. The tackles are Williams and Reiff. The guards are XSF and Spain. The center is Hopkins (when healed)/Price. There is clearly a need to upgrade on line, but that is at guard.

But you cannot sell me on somehow taking Sewell "opens up" the draft when they would still be heading into the rest of the draft with a gaping chasm of a hole at WR in the WR room.

I am tired of this argument. I get that a lot of folks are super invested in Sewell. He would be great and would probably slot nicely to RG this year and then out to T next year and that would be swell. But pretending that we don't have a massive need at WR is disingenuous and I don't feel like arguing it at this point. It is not as simple as saying "take one in round 2". If you have not spent time studying the draft you won't appreciate how slot heavy the WR group is this year. We don't need slot. So the options at 38 are to hope that Bateman or Marshall fall (they most likely won't) or reach for Dyami Brown. Or wait. There will be REALLY good o-line talent at 38, and in the Sewell at 5 solution, I would rather they hit line again than reach at WR. And, yes, even with WR being a need. No reaching.

That's the last from me on this. I know Todd Gack hates it when I post, so peace out.Without taking a side in Chase/Sewell (I'll be happy with either), I think some are missing the fact that we start 3 WRs and use that formation a heavy amount of time. So unless those folks are comfortable starting Tate or Michael Thomas at the outside WR opposite Higgins, I'm with you that some either don't understand that or are overlooking it.

Having said that, I'd be pretty much on Team Chase, but the Bengals didn't do enough to improve the offensive line in free agency that I'm fully comfortable passing on offensive line at 5 unless Sewell is gone, which seems unlikely. Even if they draft a guard in the second round after Chase in the first, they still have a massive need at tackle after this year assuming Reiff leaves when his contract is up. In short, both an outside WR, guard and a long-term tackle are major needs on offense.

[oregonred]

I could argue Chase or Sewell with conviction either way

This team needs a weapon at WR or TE that can get separation and stretch the field. Chase would be perfect for the Bengals and AFC North. Lot less blitzing and more respect needed by defenses. Burrow could be lethal with more quick passes and reads.

Sewell - Obviously would be a massive upgrade, especially if he started at Guard the first year.

Pitts - Fills a Huge need. I would stay away just with some injury history at UF

Was hoping since December that #5 would allow the Bengals to draft one of Chase/Sewell. Now with the Jets moving Darnold and the Niners trade to #3 looks like they will have the choice. Which is fantastic development for the franchise. They desperately need both (who doesn't) but can only get one...

Mem, keep posting on the draft. Your takes are well respected.

I lean towards Chase given deeper OT/OL draft for Round 2, but will be more than happy as long as Chase or Sewell are written on the draft card at #5.

[Redsfaithful]

I just think you have an unhealthy obsession with Joe Burrow.

Who doesn't?? Half a season of football and he's already one of my favorite athletes ever (granted, some of that is what he did at LSU, but still.)

[Redsfaithful]

I think the real move to protect Burrow needs to happen in rounds 3 or 4, where they should take a second lineman (after the first one in Rd 1 or 2). The depth is trash, and Burrow will get destroyed if one of the tackles gets hurt again.

[WVRed]

I think the real move to protect Burrow needs to happen in rounds 3 or 4, where they should take a second lineman (after the first one in Rd 1 or 2). The depth is trash, and Burrow will get destroyed if one of the tackles gets hurt again.

Long story short, they need two OL in rounds 1-4.

I was leaning Sewell earlier but considering the depth of the o-linemen in this class vs receiver depth id rather see them go Chase or Pitts.

Here’s some names to consider:

https://www.cincyjungle.com/2021/4/4/22358078/2021-nfl-draft-potential-2nd-round-offensive-line-options-for-cincinnati-bengals

[bucksfan2]

I think the real move to protect Burrow needs to happen in rounds 3 or 4, where they should take a second lineman (after the first one in Rd 1 or 2). The depth is trash, and Burrow will get destroyed if one of the tackles gets hurt again.

We all get sucked into the fallacy that you need to be a first rounder to be a great player. The later on in the draft you go, the more "warts" you see on players. Some end up being great players, others flame out. When the Bengals built quality rosters, they did so by nailing later round picks.

I can guarantee you there will be a later round WR who ends up making a big splash this next season. It happens each and every year. There will also be a a G or T who ends up becoming the starter out of camp. Its all about finding the right player and fit.

To answer Mem's post, I don't think WR is as big of a need as T. Granted Higgins isn't fleet of foot and Boyd is a slot WR, the idea you need a burner on the outside for a good corp is lost on me. Ross is a perfect example of a guy who had all the ability but was a bust.

I think keeping Burrow upright is the most important thing this organization can do. Now you can do that in rounds 2-4, and you can do it rather successfully. But this is also an organization who has failed when the guy they wanted was taken right before them. When they reach, they do so terribly. Billy Price in round 1, they picked Drew Sample in round 2. I look at a team like Pitt, get a mean and nasty OL, and then you can fill in at WR as needed. Lets say Sewell and Chase end up living up to their potential, I can see Sewell being a stalwart OL for a decade. I can see Chase being an AJ Green type of player, or an OBJ or Antiono Brown type of player.

Here is the crazy thing, a decade ago if I asked you, would your rather invest in Green or Whitworth, the answer would have been Green about 5-1 or more. Turns out that was the wrong choice. Chase may be a great WR, but you solidify the T spot for a decade, you can grab the next Chase. If the T spot continues to be a swinging door, you may be reaching for your next QB far sooner than thought.

[RiverRat13]

We all get sucked into the fallacy that you need to be a first rounder to be a great player. The later on in the draft you go, the more "warts" you see on players. Some end up being great players, others flame out. When the Bengals built quality rosters, they did so by nailing later round picks.

I can guarantee you there will be a later round WR who ends up making a big splash this next season. It happens each and every year. There will also be a a G or T who ends up becoming the starter out of camp. Its all about finding the right player and fit.

To answer Mem's post, I don't think WR is as big of a need as T. Granted Higgins isn't fleet of foot and Boyd is a slot WR, the idea you need a burner on the outside for a good corp is lost on me. Ross is a perfect example of a guy who had all the ability but was a bust.

I think keeping Burrow upright is the most important thing this organization can do. Now you can do that in rounds 2-4, and you can do it rather successfully. But this is also an organization who has failed when the guy they wanted was taken right before them. When they reach, they do so terribly. Billy Price in round 1, they picked Drew Sample in round 2. I look at a team like Pitt, get a mean and nasty OL, and then you can fill in at WR as needed. Lets say Sewell and Chase end up living up to their potential, I can see Sewell being a stalwart OL for a decade. I can see Chase being an AJ Green type of player, or an OBJ or Antiono Brown type of player.

Here is the crazy thing, a decade ago if I asked you, would your rather invest in Green or Whitworth, the answer would have been Green about 5-1 or more. Turns out that was the wrong choice. Chase may be a great WR, but you solidify the T spot for a decade, you can grab the next Chase. If the T spot continues to be a swinging door, you may be reaching for your next QB far sooner than thought.

The Bengals were dead last in the NFL in overall explosive play rate and explosive passing rate. So the counter to your argument is that if you can score in five or six plays rather than having to always put together 10-12 play drives, that in and of itself lessons the number of throws Burrow makes, which lessens the amount of chances he can get hit. Speed at WR is absolutely a need. They really need to come away with two guys who can punish teams downfield. Whether one of those needs to come at 5 is the question.

Again, I'm not against going OL in the first round. I just don't know if it makes sense to go OL at 5. Maybe it is all smokescreen, but if the Bengals don't take Sewell, there's buzz that he may fall farther than we think. And even if he doesn't fall, I think I'd rather have Slater and a couple of extra picks than Sewell and no extra picks.

[redsfandan]

Apparently Jerry Jones really likes Pitts. The Cowboys pick 10th. So, I'd love to see the Cowboys and Bengals swap 1st round picks. The Bengals could add some extra picks while still having a top 10 pick in the 1st round. Granted, it's the Bengals but I can dream.

[bucksfan2]

The Bengals were dead last in the NFL in overall explosive play rate and explosive passing rate. So the counter to your argument is that if you can score in five or six plays rather than having to always put together 10-12 play drives, that in and of itself lessons the number of throws Burrow makes, which lessens the amount of chances he can get hit. Speed at WR is absolutely a need. They really need to come away with two guys who can punish teams downfield. Whether one of those needs to come at 5 is the question.

Again, I'm not against going OL in the first round. I just don't know if it makes sense to go OL at 5. Maybe it is all smokescreen, but if the Bengals don't take Sewell, there's buzz that he may fall farther than we think. And even if he doesn't fall, I think I'd rather have Slater and a couple of extra picks than Sewell and no extra picks.

Were the Bengals last in explosive plays because their line couldn't protect?

They had one of the fastest WR's in the game and it didn't matter.

We are going round and round here. Basically the way I look at it: I want Sewell, I am ok, but not thrilled with Chase, I am pissed if its Pitts.

[membengal]

Were the Bengals last in explosive plays because their line couldn't protect?

They had one of the fastest WR's in the game and it didn't matter.

We are going round and round here. Basically the way I look at it: I want Sewell, I am ok, but not thrilled with Chase, I am pissed if its Pitts.

Are you talking about John Ross for this? Because...you should not be citing him. He never played. he was hurt yet again.

[membengal]

Apparently Jerry Jones really likes Pitts. The Cowboys pick 10th. So, I'd love to see the Cowboys and Bengals swap 1st round picks. The Bengals could add some extra picks while still having a top 10 pick in the 1st round. Granted, it's the Bengals but I can dream.

Counter-point, you should not pass up true difference makers if you can get one. Tobin has already said trading too far back is unlikely because of chance they will miss on a premium prospect that they are currently well positioned to get. So, if you figure that the non-qb premium prospects are (in no particular order) Pitts, Chase, Sewell - then trading back to 10 means very potentially missing on those three. Which they said they will not do.

[RiverRat13]

NFL.com player grades - https://www.nfl.com/prospects/

[Boss-Hog]

John Ross was inactive the vast majority of the season (mostly due to coaches' decision but was also injured for a few games), so I don't think it's accurate to point out their lack of explosive plays with him on the field because he was hardly on the field.

[bucksfan2]

Are you talking about John Ross for this? Because...you should not be citing him. He never played. he was hurt yet again.

Ross went on IR the 9th week of the season. He was on the on the roster for 8 of Joe Burrow's 10 starts.

I don't buy the idea they need "speed" on the outside, because they had speed, he just stunk. They need a good WR, and they probably are best served not drafting a slot, but still think you can find WR tallent all through the draft. Its much easier to find a late round WR gem than it is an OL.

[Boss-Hog]

Ross went on IR the 9th week of the season. He was on the on the roster for 8 of Joe Burrow's 10 starts.

I don't buy the idea they need "speed" on the outside, because they had speed, he just stunk. They need a good WR, and they probably are best served not drafting a slot, but still think you can find WR tallent all through the draft. Its much easier to find a late round WR gem than it is an OL.He was phased out of the offense almost completely after week 2. He played all of three games in 2020 with one start. If their top four WRs are Higgins, Boyd, Tate and Thomas, that's probably the least athletic top four WR group in the league. That matters, just as protection matters.

[redsfandan]

Counter-point, you should not pass up true difference makers if you can get one. Tobin has already said trading too far back is unlikely because of chance they will miss on a premium prospect that they are currently well positioned to get. So, if you figure that the non-qb premium prospects are (in no particular order) Pitts, Chase, Sewell - then trading back to 10 means very potentially missing on those three. Which they said they will not do.

I wouldn't want them to trade down too far either. But, we're only talking 5 spots. Sure, it would probably mean they'd miss out on Chase (with Pitts taken by the Cowboys). They could also come out ahead with whoever falls to them and the extra picks. The Bengals might not have any interest in trading down to picking 10th. If the Cowboys could make it interesting than why not at least consider it. Because the only "difference makers" will be already gone after only 9 picks?

[Boss-Hog]

I wouldn't want them to trade down too far either. But, we're only talking 5 spots. Sure, it would probably mean they'd miss out on Chase (with Pitts taken by the Cowboys). They could also come out ahead with whoever falls to them and the extra picks. The Bengals might not have any interest in trading down to picking 10th. If the Cowboys could make it interesting than why not at least consider it. Because the only "difference makers" will be already gone after only 9 picks?In this draft, I think there's a pretty big difference in the quality of player you can get at 5 (with three to four QBs going ahead of your pick) than 10. Picking at 10 almost assuredly leaves you without Chase or Pitts and quite possibly Sewell, and that's not worth the second round pick or whatever the compensation would be, IMO.

[plantmanky]

Chase or trade those are the options at 5, Sewell will be a bust in the NFL.

[redsfandan]

In this draft, I think there's a pretty big difference in the quality of player you can get at 5 (with three to four QBs going ahead of your pick) than 10. Picking at 10 almost assuredly leaves you without Chase or Pitts and quite possibly Sewell, and that's not worth the second round pick or whatever the compensation would be, IMO.
Maybe either Sewell or Slater is still available at 10. It's actually possible that the Bengals could address their BIGGEST need with the BEST offensive lineman in the draft at 10. I think it's odd that anyone wouldn't even listen to what the Cowboys might offer.

[bucksfan2]

I keep thinking, what would the Steelers or Ravens do if they were in this situation. They aren't taking Chase or Pitts here, they are taking someone they will plug in at T and maul for the next decade.

I also think you have to take into consideration the type of QB you have. Some have gotten by overlooking the OL because the QB had the ability to get the ball out quick. Herbert had a better season with a worse OLine than Burrow did. Maybe Burrow isn't the type of guy who is going to get the ball out quick. Protecting him may be the most important thing.

At the end of the day, the Bengals must answer the question "how are we going to protect Burrow moving forward" This draft you have the chance to get your #1 ranked T, you likely won't have that option in the future, if things go as planned.

If the Bengals will have the least athletic WR corp without Chase, why in the world did they draft Higgins last season? But I digress.

[Todd Gack]

I keep thinking, what would the Steelers or Ravens do if they were in this situation. They aren't taking Chase or Pitts here, they are taking someone they will plug in at T and maul for the next decade.

I also think you have to take into consideration the type of QB you have. Some have gotten by overlooking the OL because the QB had the ability to get the ball out quick. Herbert had a better season with a worse OLine than Burrow did. Maybe Burrow isn't the type of guy who is going to get the ball out quick. Protecting him may be the most important thing.

At the end of the day, the Bengals must answer the question "how are we going to protect Burrow moving forward" This draft you have the chance to get your #1 ranked T, you likely won't have that option in the future, if things go as planned.

If the Bengals will have the least athletic WR corp without Chase, why in the world did they draft Higgins last season? But I digress.

The difference is the Ravens can develop OL. They can take Pitts and Chase and not worry about someone dropping to them in the 2R on the OL because they know they'll still be good. We can't count on that.

[Boss-Hog]

Maybe either Sewell or Slater is still available at 10. It's actually possible that the Bengals could address their BIGGEST need with the BEST offensive lineman in the draft at 10. I think it's odd that anyone wouldn't even listen to what the Cowboys might offer.I don't think anyone, including myself, said they wouldn't or shouldn't listen. I just don't think the likely compensation would be worth the drop in quality of player. If you're banking on Sewell and/or Slater being there, you're at risk of a team trading in front of you to take your pick (Ragnow and possibly Bush, though I think the Bengals were taking Jonah either way). The return I think is realistic isn't worth the tradeoff in my opinion, but you certainly listen to all offers.

[Boss-Hog]

I keep thinking, what would the Steelers or Ravens do if they were in this situation. They aren't taking Chase or Pitts here, they are taking someone they will plug in at T and maul for the next decade.

I also think you have to take into consideration the type of QB you have. Some have gotten by overlooking the OL because the QB had the ability to get the ball out quick. Herbert had a better season with a worse OLine than Burrow did. Maybe Burrow isn't the type of guy who is going to get the ball out quick. Protecting him may be the most important thing.

At the end of the day, the Bengals must answer the question "how are we going to protect Burrow moving forward" This draft you have the chance to get your #1 ranked T, you likely won't have that option in the future, if things go as planned.

If the Bengals will have the least athletic WR corp without Chase, why in the world did they draft Higgins last season? But I digress.https://relativeathleticscores.com/2020/02/09/tee-higgins-ras/

I don't think RAS is any sort of end all, be all, but it does match my eyes in that I don't think Higgins is a great athlete relative to his position. They took him because he's still a really good player (a pick I was in favor of that I believe you weren't, for context), so I'm not implying you have to be a great athlete to be a good player. However, you can only throw out so many slow or slowish receivers and still succeed when the defense isn't going to respect your ability to take the top off. Again, I'm not fully on board Team Chase because the Bengals didn't do enough to improve the offensive line this offseason, especially long-term, which I suspect you agree with, but not having a legitimate deep threat / ability to hit on explosive plays was one of multiple issues with the offense last season. The protection was certainly another.

[RiverRat13]

I'd listen to Denver or New England wanting to trade up for a QB. They would potentially give an offer the Bengals couldn't refuse. I don't think anyone else would do so.

Pittsburgh never picks in the top 5, so it is tough to know what they'd do. But they've only taken 3 offensive linemen in the first since 2000. They picked in top 10 twice during that time. They took a WR (Plaxico Burress at 8) and a LB (Devin Bush at 10).

The Ravens went with Ronnie Stanley a few years ago at 6. They've also only taken 3 offensive lineman in the first since 2000. The Bengals have taken 5 offensive lineman in the first in that time.

[bucksfan2]

https://relativeathleticscores.com/2020/02/09/tee-higgins-ras/

I don't think RAS is any sort of end all, be all, but it does match my eyes in that I don't think Higgins is a great athlete relative to his position. They took him because he's still a really good player (a pick I was in favor of that I believe you weren't, for context), so I'm not implying you have to be a great athlete to be a good player. However, you can only throw out so many slow or slowish receivers and still succeed when the defense isn't going to respect your ability to take the top off. Again, I'm not fully on board Team Chase because the Bengals didn't do enough to improve the offensive line this offseason, especially long-term, which I suspect you agree with, but not having a legitimate deep threat / ability to hit on explosive plays was one of multiple issues with the offense last season. The protection was certainly another.

I was not high on Higgins the pick, and still think it was the wrong pick.

The order of need for the Bengals should have been:
1. Draft Burrow
2. Protect Burrow
3. Get him weapons
4. Improve the defense.

Well the succeeded on 1, 3,4 but failed miserably on 2. The notion that they picked Burrow #1 and didn't make another move to protect him surprises me. I can see this play out:

1. Chase
2. DE - Well, the lineman we wanted went right before our pick and DE was the highest rated player on our board.
3. LB - Again, the lineman we targeted was picked and said LB was the highest rated player on our board.
4. WR - We had said WR ranked as a 2nd rounder.
5. RB - We needed to replace Bernard
6. OT - Man are we glad this guy slipped to round 6. We think he can be a starter in the future.
7. CB - Throw away pick, CB who will be luck to stay on the roster.

[WVRed]

Apparently Jerry Jones really likes Pitts. The Cowboys pick 10th. So, I'd love to see the Cowboys and Bengals swap 1st round picks. The Bengals could add some extra picks while still having a top 10 pick in the 1st round. Granted, it's the Bengals but I can dream.

Jerry Jones isn’t going to give up what it would take for the Bengals to move down for a TE. No one would give up their first and second rounder this year and a first round pick next year for anything other than a franchise QB.

And that’s the return I’d expect for moving down.

[Boss-Hog]

I was not high on Higgins the pick, and still think it was the wrong pick.

The order of need for the Bengals should have been:
1. Draft Burrow
2. Protect Burrow
3. Get him weapons
4. Improve the defense.

Well the succeeded on 1, 3,4 but failed miserably on 2. The notion that they picked Burrow #1 and didn't make another move to protect him surprises me. I can see this play out:

1. Chase
2. DE - Well, the lineman we wanted went right before our pick and DE was the highest rated player on our board.
3. LB - Again, the lineman we targeted was picked and said LB was the highest rated player on our board.
4. WR - We had said WR ranked as a 2nd rounder.
5. RB - We needed to replace Bernard
6. OT - Man are we glad this guy slipped to round 6. We think he can be a starter in the future.
7. CB - Throw away pick, CB who will be luck to stay on the roster.We are in agreement that they've failed to protect Burrow. Honestly, their line has been an issue since their last playoff team, as the 2016 line stunk even with Whitworth and Zeitler (thanks Cedric O). They've sunk plenty of resources into the line but through a combination of bad drafting, coaching, trades (Corey Glenn) and injury luck, they have little to show for the draft capital they've spent on the offensive line. Off the top of my head, since 2015, they've drafted three first round offensive linemen (Cedric O, Price and Jonah) along with Fisher in the second. Only Williams looks like a keeper from that group, and he's had major issues staying healthy. At some point, they have to be able to draft and develop offensive linemen, especially outside the first round, because all these wasted picks on first round offensive linemen come at the expense of picking other positions that need an infusion of talent. You can only pick so much of one position without the rest of your roster suffering. Their issue isn't lack of attention to the line (aside from arguably guard) but not picking the right players and coaches.

[redsfandan]

Jerry Jones isn’t going to give up what it would take for the Bengals to move down for a TE. No one would give up their first and second rounder this year and a first round pick next year for anything other than a franchise QB.

And that’s the return I’d expect for moving down.

How much is enough for moving down 5 spots is debatable. It also doesn't matter. The Bengals wouldn't do it no matter what was offered. Cuz they're the Bengals.

[Boss-Hog]

How much is enough for moving down 5 spots is debatable. It also doesn't matter. The Bengals wouldn't do it no matter what was offered. Cuz they're the Bengals.They moved back 12 spots in the first round three years ago, and that decision unquestionably came back to bite them.

[UKFlounder]

They moved down in the Chris Perry draft and the Kevin Zeitler draft too. Those are old examples, but the front office is mostly the same people

[Boss-Hog]

They moved down in the Chris Perry draft and the Kevin Zeitler draft too. Those are old examples, but the front office is mostly the same peopleGood point. In both cases, they drafted a lower rated player at the same position than was on the board at their original pick and ended up with the worse player of the two (Jackson/Perry and DeCastro/Zeitler).

[Kingspoint]

Chase or trade those are the options at 5, Sewell will be a bust in the NFL.

Never place a bet based on this person's opinion about sports, unless he's just trying to be a troll with this post.

[Bob Sheed]

Chase might be the next Jerry Rice.

Sewell might be the next Muñoz.

But this draft is deeper with OL than with WR.

I'd rather take a chance on an elite WR and a good LT, than an elite LT and the WR corps we have now.

We can take Chase with 5 and have a pretty good selection of highly graded OL to choose from. Not so with the WR class this year.

I really do think that is what it all comes down to. Membengal has been saying this all along, so props to him. But look at the draft grades. Yes, they should be taken with a grain of salt, but based on the info we have to work with.... it's true. Gotta go Chase here.

[WVRed]

Chase might be the next Jerry Rice.

Sewell might be the next Muñoz.

But this draft is deeper with OL than with WR.

I'd rather take a chance on an elite WR and a good LT, than an elite LT and the WR corps we have now.

We can take Chase with 5 and have a pretty good selection of highly graded OL to choose from. Not so with the WR class this year.

I really do think that is what it all comes down to. Membengal has been saying this all along, so props to him. But look at the draft grades. Yes, they should be taken with a grain of salt, but based on the info we have to work with.... it's true. Gotta go Chase here.

There’s a better possibility that any of the following:

Teven Jenkins
Alex Leatherwood
Landon Dickerson
Dillon Raduntz
Sam Cosmi
Allijah Vera-Tucker
Walker Little
Jackson Carman

are available in the second round than:

Terrace Marshall
Dyami Brown
Rashod Bateman
Rondale Moore
Kedarius Toney

It reminds me of when the Bengals were pigeonholed into a WR in the draft that they took WJ III because no other receivers were a first round grade and were damn lucky Tyler Boyd lasted until the second round when they picked.

[WVRed]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210411/826da64cf9110d9fb6285c7aac0134fa.jpg
Anyone fine with this one?

[RedTeamGo!]

We should do a Redszone mock draft this year

[WVRed]

We should do a Redszone mock draft this year

Just the Bengals or all 32 teams?

We’ve done it in the past where everyone picks a team and drafts for them. As traffic for the board has died in years past we’ve had problems filling teams.

I’ll probably do a first round mock as it gets closer.

[RedTeamGo!]

Just the Bengals or all 32 teams?

We’ve done it in the past where everyone picks a team and drafts for them. As traffic for the board has died in years past we’ve had problems filling teams.

I’ll probably do a first round mock as it gets closer.

The 32 team variety. I’ve taken part in multiple for both MLB and NFL on here. I think I ran an NFL one once. I can do it again if folks are interested. I’ll start the thread.

[WVRed]

The 32 team variety. I’ve taken part in multiple for both MLB and NFL on here. I think I ran an NFL one once. I can do it again if folks are interested. I’ll start the thread.

[emoji106]

[Kingspoint]

We are in agreement that they've failed to protect Burrow. Honestly, their line has been an issue since their last playoff team, as the 2016 line stunk even with Whitworth and Zeitler (thanks Cedric O). They've sunk plenty of resources into the line but through a combination of bad drafting, coaching, trades (Corey Glenn) and injury luck, they have little to show for the draft capital they've spent on the offensive line. Off the top of my head, since 2015, they've drafted three first round offensive linemen (Cedric O, Price and Jonah) along with Fisher in the second. Only Williams looks like a keeper from that group, and he's had major issues staying healthy. At some point, they have to be able to draft and develop offensive linemen, especially outside the first round, because all these wasted picks on first round offensive linemen come at the expense of picking other positions that need an infusion of talent. You can only pick so much of one position without the rest of your roster suffering. Their issue isn't lack of attention to the line (aside from arguably guard) but not picking the right players and coaches.

Trying to fix everything through the draft was one problem. Ignoring average FA's for the O-Line and instead over-paying for bad ones by outbidding themselves was another. Seems Mike Brown was the problem, along with Marvin Lewis' input to the draft (and one year of a very bad O-Line Coach). All three of those problems seem to be gone now. It will be much better, and already is with what has been done this season so far.

[oregonred]

Simple solution is never reach for a first round pick with injury history or especially where the first year is going to require significant rehab - especially OLine or Dline where leg strength and contact is paramount. Cedric and Billy Price are perfect examples along with John Glass. The salary structure dictates immediate production from your round 1-2 picks. By that simple criteria that would have eliminated the three worst first round picks in the last ten years. Let other more thorough teams evaluate and sift through injury risks in round 1.

I know not an OL, but will never figure out the John Ross pick at #9

[WrongVerb]

Bengals Claim TE Thaddeus Moss (https://www.profootballrumors.com/2021/04/bengals-claim-te-thaddeus-moss)


Thaddeus Moss did not move too far down the waiver priority list. The Bengals placed a successful claim on the former UDFA tight end, Ian Rapoport of NFL.com tweets.

Washington waived the second-generation pass catcher last week, doing so after Moss spent his would-be rookie season on IR. Now, the former LSU tight end will reunite with Joe Burrow. Both played their final college seasons in 2019, when the current Bengals quarterback soared to the Heisman Trophy in a passing attack that included Moss, Justin Jefferson, Ja’Marr Chase, Terrace Marshall Jr. and Clyde Edwards-Helaire.

The son of Randy Moss, Thaddeus has yet to play a regular-season down in the NFL. Washington waived him with an injury designation ahead of last season, and he passed through waivers to the team’s IR list.

[WVRed]

Simple solution is never reach for a first round pick with injury history or especially where the first year is going to require significant rehab - especially OLine or Dline where leg strength and contact is paramount. Cedric and Billy Price are perfect examples along with John Glass. The salary structure dictates immediate production from your round 1-2 picks. By that simple criteria that would have eliminated the three worst first round picks in the last ten years. Let other more thorough teams evaluate and sift through injury risks in round 1.

I know not an OL, but will never figure out the John Ross pick at #9

Levi Jones was a reach when they took him.

[oregonred]

He was panned by Kiper at the time, but can't remember if he had an injury history in college or going into the draft

Gio to the Bucs. Great move for him. Will be interested to see the $$$ for the 1-year deal

[KoryMac5]

Wondering if the Moss signing is a signal that the Bengals will draft Chase at #5...saw some buzz on twitter that the Bengals could possibly be trying to recreate the offensive feel Burrow had at LSU.

[WVRed]

Bucs just signed Gio. Tom Brady gets another toy compliments of Cincinnati.

[KoryMac5]

He was panned by Kiper at the time, but can't remember if he had an injury history in college or going into the draft

Gio to the Bucs. Great move for him. Will be interested to see the $$$ for the 1-year deal

Kiper panned them not trading back if I remember...Bengals tried to trade back but feared going back too far and losing him...as Tenn and NYG had him rated high as well.

Good for Gio Brady will absolutely love him....

[forfreelin04]

I think the Twitter buzz is legit. Probably more of a hybrid between LSU and the McVay style offense I'd imagine.

Like I've said before I think, a Boyd, Higgins, and Chase 3 WR set is a nightmare for defenses especially when you account for Mixon too. Plus, Moss could be lightening in a bottle. It's highly likely Burrow and he are good friends. I think that helps his cause.

There's more depth at O line than WR IMO. I was strictly on the Sewell side a month ago, but if Chase puts up Justin Jefferson numbers in year 1 than that's a solid number 1 pick.

[WVRed]

Kiper panned them not trading back if I remember...Bengals tried to trade back but feared going back too far and losing him...as Tenn and NYG had him rated high as well.

Good for Gio Brady will absolutely love him....

They were in the mix that year for Jeremy Shockey I think.

[RiverRat13]

Kiper panned them not trading back if I remember...Bengals tried to trade back but feared going back too far and losing him...as Tenn and NYG had him rated high as well.

Good for Gio Brady will absolutely love him....

Kiper did kill them for not trading back.

[Kingspoint]

I just don't feel good about our starting Tackles being one guy who's played only 10 of 32 games (more games and more missed time if you count missed preseason games, missed training camps and missed OTA's), and the other Tackle on a 1-year contract and deep into his 30's.

The Bengals have not had success drafting in the second 2/3rd's of the 1st Rd, so a trade-down is not necessarily a benefit. Chase is small and WR's of smaller size miss games, lots of them,...it's just a fact of the NFL. Sewell is the only logical choice. Pitts sounds exciting, but our last two TE's we took in the 1st were busts. Gresham couldn't catch a pass and was a penalty machine, while Eifert couldn't stay healthy, making planning impossible, like our current starting LT.

[KoryMac5]

I just don't feel good about our starting Tackles being one guy who's played only 10 of 32 games (more games and more missed time if you count missed preseason games, missed training camps and missed OTA's), and the other Tackle on a 1-year contract and deep into his 30's.

The Bengals have not had success drafting in the second 2/3rd's of the 1st Rd, so a trade-down is not necessarily a benefit. Chase is small and WR's of smaller size miss games, lots of them,...it's just a fact of the NFL. Sewell is the only logical choice. Pitts sounds exciting, but our last two TE's we took in the 1st were busts. Gresham couldn't catch a pass and was a penalty machine, while Eifert couldn't stay healthy, making planning impossible, like our current starting LT.

Chase is shorter than the prototypical wide out but he is thicker and tougher to tackle...plus he is strong for a receiver as he benched 225 23 times at his pro day. I think he will be fine in the pros if that is the pick.

[membengal]

Chase is shorter than the prototypical wide out but he is thicker and tougher to tackle...plus he is strong for a receiver as he benched 225 23 times at his pro day. I think he will be fine in the pros if that is the pick.

It's like he was made in a lab for the AFC North.

[SirFelixCat]

nm

[WrongVerb]

It's like he was made in a lab for the AFC North.

Ja'Maar Chase: 600/207
Hines Ward: 600/205

[membengal]

Ja'Maar Chase: 600/207
Hines Ward: 600/205

Nods. Only, upgraded speed, explosiveness, and burst.

[WrongVerb]

Nods. Only, upgraded speed, explosiveness, and burst.

I'm a big fan of taking OL or DL in the first round. But the idea of taking Chase is growing on me. Get Cosmi, Little, or Eichenberg in the second and everything else will be gravy.

[RiverRat13]

Malik Wright (who seems pretty plugged in) says he's 95% sure the pick will be Chase.

[membengal]

The uniform reveal will be Monday.

[WVRed]

Chase is shorter than the prototypical wide out but he is thicker and tougher to tackle...plus he is strong for a receiver as he benched 225 23 times at his pro day. I think he will be fine in the pros if that is the pick.

Exactly. He’s heavier which works in his favor. It’s why most are shying away from DeVonta Smith and Jaylen Waddle as well. Same height as Chase but about 30 lb less.

[bucksfan2]

Exactly. He’s heavier which works in his favor. It’s why most are shying away from DeVonta Smith and Jaylen Waddle as well. Same height as Chase but about 30 lb less.

Do you think Smith is going to be a good NFL player? He is the guy who I would stay away from in the first round.

[membengal]

As I've been saying. Glad to see it confirmed.



Ian Rapoport
@RapSheet

Random draft quote from an experienced top evaluator: “This draft is unprecedented in its sheer number of really good slot WRs.” Last year’s WR class was deep, but more outside guys. This year, it’s top inside guys.

[Hillsdale87]

Do you think Smith is going to be a good NFL player? He is the guy who I would stay away from in the first round.

I think he will be, but I'd be nervous about using a top 10 pick on him


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[WVRed]

Do you think Smith is going to be a good NFL player? He is the guy who I would stay away from in the first round.

Just depends on who drafts him and how he’s utilized.

I’d have less faith in him working out in Cincinnati than I would somewhere like the Giants where he would be opposite Kenny Golladay.

[membengal]

I subscribe to Matt Miller's venture that he launched after he left Bleacher Report. He released his scouting summary on Chase today. He hasn't released one on Sewell yet that I have seen. I am pasting the summary of Chase here, and will do same for Sewell when/if he releases those notes. This captures the argument for Chase really well, IMO...


Strengths: Chase is the ideal combination of body control, strength, physicality, speed and overall athleticism. Despite not having elite height, he’s a monster in traffic because he’s strong enough to out-position defenders and has elite vertical jump skills. Against SEC defenders in 2019, before he opted out of the 2020 season, Chase showed the speed to separate over the top of defenses (see Florida and Alabama games) when facing man coverage. He’s a WR1 from Day 1 on an NFL team. In 2019, as a 19-year-old, Chase scored 20 touchdowns and won the Fred Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s best receiver. He is scheme-proof and can fit into any role playing outside and inside receiver.

Weaknesses: There isn’t much to write here. Chase isn’t amazing in terms of open-field quickness and elusiveness. That might be it.

What I Love: Few wide receiver prospects combine Chase’s physicality, aggressiveness and athleticism. He’s super-aggressive and competitive but also has the speed to blow past defenders. He’s rare.

[KoryMac5]

I subscribe to Matt Miller's venture that he launched after he left Bleacher Report. He released his scouting summary on Chase today. He hasn't released one on Sewell yet that I have seen. I am pasting the summary of Chase here, and will do same for Sewell when/if he releases those notes. This captures the argument for Chase really well, IMO...

Chase reminds me a bit of Devante Adams...nice combination of speed, and the ability to use his body to his advantage to make the catch.

[membengal]

For those who don't dive deep into draft prep stuff, Brandon Thorn is one of the really good o-line eval guys to follow and read. Here's his top 100 list:


Top 20 OL, as ranked by
@BrandonThornNFL
:

4. Sewell
8. Dickerson
12. Jenkins
13. AVT
15. Slater
18. Darrisaw
25. Humphrey
28. Eichenberg
29. Forsythe
34. Leatherwood
37. Meinerz
38. Davis
47. Christensen
49. Jaimes
67. Cosmi
69. Little
70. Dalman
71. Green
80. Smith
81. Hainsey

[Kingspoint]

Not really into grade school football philosophy...the best player plays Quarterback, anyone else that's good goes out for a pass, and all the scrubs block.

Give me Sewell or pick up a pick or three, trade down a few spots and grab Slater.

[KoryMac5]

Not really into grade school football philosophy...the best player plays Quarterback, anyone else that's good goes out for a pass, and all the scrubs block.

Give me Sewell or pick up a pick or three, trade down a few spots and grab Slater.

Trade back and still get Sewell...

If Sewell gets past the Falcons at 4 I could see him being available to the Bengals if they make a trade with Denver. It's something worth considering and the price goes up the closer you get to draft day.

[Ohayou]

For those who don't dive deep into draft prep stuff, Brandon Thorn is one of the really good o-line eval guys to follow and read. Here's his top 100 list:

Who is James? Hudson?

Yeah, his Top 100 is kind of out there. Landon Dickerson being the 6th best overall prospect is just outright crazy, IMO - his injury history might push him to round 3. Bateman over Chase. Rashad Weaver (who I like) as his #2 edge. Then again, this is a difficult class to evaluate.

[KoryMac5]

Who is James? Hudson?

Yeah, his Top 100 is kind of out there. Landon Dickerson being the 6th best overall prospect is just outright crazy, IMO - his injury history might push him to round 3. Bateman over Chase. Rashad Weaver (who I like) as his #2 edge. Then again, this is a difficult class to evaluate.

A lot of draft experts have him (Dickerson) high Brugler has a 1st or 2nd round grade on him however 2 blown knees and ankle problems will have him going 2nd or 3rd round...Brugler in his 7 round mock has him to the Bengals at pick 38.

[membengal]

Who is James? Hudson?

Yeah, his Top 100 is kind of out there. Landon Dickerson being the 6th best overall prospect is just outright crazy, IMO - his injury history might push him to round 3. Bateman over Chase. Rashad Weaver (who I like) as his #2 edge. Then again, this is a difficult class to evaluate.

James Hudson is UC T who may project to G in the pros. He's got top 100 grades from most evaluators.

[Ohayou]

A lot of draft experts have him (Dickerson) high Brugler has a 1st or 2nd round grade on him however 2 blown knees and ankle problems will have him going 2nd or 3rd round...Brugler in his 7 round mock has him to the Bengals at pick 38.

Even healthy, I wouldn't put a center at #6. I don't think many Bengals fans would like that pick at 38 either.


James Hudson is UC T who may project to G in the pros. He's got top 100 grades from most evaluators.

I know who he is, but everyone is listed there by last name, and I don't know of any O-lineman with the last name James, so I assumed he meant Hudson.

[KoryMac5]

Even healthy, I wouldn't put a center at #6. I don't think many Bengals fans would like that pick at 38 either.



I know who he is, but everyone is listed there by last name, and I don't know of any O-lineman with the last name James, so I assumed he meant Hudson.

I think he is more than a center though he can play guard too...336 lbs leading the way at RG would look really good on many teams. Most of the experts don't have the medicals that the teams have so I think he may go in round 3.

[membengal]

Even healthy, I wouldn't put a center at #6. I don't think many Bengals fans would like that pick at 38 either.



I know who he is, but everyone is listed there by last name, and I don't know of any O-lineman with the last name James, so I assumed he meant Hudson.

Oh - Jamies- the T from Nebraska.

- - - Updated - - -

Dickerson absolutely can play G- would be a monster at RG.

[WVRed]

Even healthy, I wouldn't put a center at #6. I don't think many Bengals fans would like that pick at 38 either.



I know who he is, but everyone is listed there by last name, and I don't know of any O-lineman with the last name James, so I assumed he meant Hudson.

I could live with it if they do go Chase in round 1 and OL is wiped clean by the time it gets to 38 and Dickerson is the best available.

I posted a link earlier in this thread with OL who might be available when the Bengals pick in the second round. Any ideas where they go then? Anyone have anybody they’d like to see at 38? I’m hoping Teven Jenkins slips. Reiff isn’t a long term answer and Jenkins could take over the year after.

[Ohayou]

The only reason I'm arguing why some fans wouldn't like Dickerson at 38 is because of his medical history. If they draft an O-lineman at 38, Bengals fans will want someone they know who can be penciled in right away as a day 1 starter.

Jenkins will probably be gone by 38, IMO. Washington, Chicago, and Indy all draft one after another, and all three I think are considering OT. After that, maybe the Jets or Chiefs. The Dolphins may also draft an O-lineman at 18 or 36. I'm hoping Leatherwood or Cosmi are there at 38. I wouldn't mind Radunz, either. Maybe trade down, snag Meinerz or Smith (medical flag).

[Reds Freak]

Big fan of the new uniforms! Cleaner and a lot less cartoonish.

https://twitter.com/Bengals/status/1384117155818459148?s=19

[WVRed]

Big fan of the new uniforms! Cleaner and a lot less cartoonish.

https://twitter.com/Bengals/status/1384117155818459148?s=19

Best part is they didn’t allow Nike to Nike it up.

[membengal]

I was never a uniform zealot - thought the last ones were fine.

Turns out, I didn't like the last ones, in hindsight. These new ones are so much better. So clean. Big improvement.

[Reds Freak]

I was never a uniform zealot - thought the last ones were fine.

Turns out, I didn't like the last ones, in hindsight. These new ones are so much better. So clean. Big improvement.

I'm in the same boat. I usually fall on the side of the simpler the better. I didn't hate the old ones but looking back on them, they had so many different color panels, it strikes me as very Arena Football-esque.

[adkindo]

Big fan of the new uniforms! Cleaner and a lot less cartoonish.

https://twitter.com/Bengals/status/1384117155818459148?s=19

IMO, the Bengals are one of the teams that nothing really matters that much outside their helmets. As long as they do not change the helmet and anything absurd with the uniform, they will be solid.

[adkindo]

The only reason I'm arguing why some fans wouldn't like Dickerson at 38 is because of his medical history. If they draft an O-lineman at 38, Bengals fans will want someone they know who can be penciled in right away as a day 1 starter.

Jenkins will probably be gone by 38, IMO. Washington, Chicago, and Indy all draft one after another, and all three I think are considering OT. After that, maybe the Jets or Chiefs. The Dolphins may also draft an O-lineman at 18 or 36. I'm hoping Leatherwood or Cosmi are there at 38. I wouldn't mind Radunz, either. Maybe trade down, snag Meinerz or Smith (medical flag).

I would be very surprised if Dickerson is there at #38. There is a strong faction of fans that want Dickerson @ #32 for the Bucs. If not for the injuries, he is being mentioned as a Top 20 pick. I am not sure if he plays Center or Guard long term in the NFL, but if he remains healthy he is the kind of guy that is almost a full proof option to be a 7-10 year starter in the NFL. He is technically sound, absolutely loves the game and is just all kinds of nasty. If I was the team that drafted him, I would not start him next season....allow him to be a versatile backup on the interior line and get playing time, but make sure he has another full year without a full workload of stress on that recent ACL injury.

[adkindo]

Anyone have an opinion if Giovani Bernard will have an impact with the Bucs as a 3rd down back? Does he have more in the tank? I have to assume Arians promised him a role or he would not have signed with TB, but that backfield is crowded and Fournette views himself as a 3rd down option.

[Bob Sheed]

I watched the video of the new uniforms.

I like them but can't tell the difference. :dunno:

[adkindo]

I would be very surprised if Dickerson is there at #38. There is a strong faction of fans that want Dickerson @ #32 for the Bucs. If not for the injuries, he is being mentioned as a Top 20 pick. I am not sure if he plays Center or Guard long term in the NFL, but if he remains healthy he is the kind of guy that is almost a full proof option to be a 7-10 year starter in the NFL. He is technically sound, absolutely loves the game and is just all kinds of nasty. If I was the team that drafted him, I would not start him next season....allow him to be a versatile backup on the interior line and get playing time, but make sure he has another full year without a full workload of stress on that recent ACL injury.

I noticed the CBS mock this morning has him falling to #79.

[RedTeamGo!]

Meh, looks like Oregon State

[Tony Cloninger]

Whatever happened to pants that went down to the Sock at least halfway or the shoulders going to at least mid arm. I know the arm thing may be to avoid being held. But they barely look like uniforms anymore.

I do like the black on this which usually I get tired of. Like the Falcons who should go back to more of the Red that they had up until the late 80s. That all black crap when Ganville became coach is not anywhere as good without more Red. Especially when everyone wanted black as if they were going to become the Raiders.

I was hoping for a white helmet with white stripes to go with the white. A black helmet with orange stripes to go with the black.

I also don’t know why teams do not put their cities name on the front above the numbers.

[membengal]

I watched the video of the new uniforms.

I like them but can't tell the difference. :dunno:

Seriously?

https://twitter.com/JoeGoodberry/status/1384123475686674435?s=20

[KoryMac5]

I like the uniforms nice clean look especially the White and the Orange...good job of not overdoing it.

Also Burrow was on the field throwing 50 yd bombs according to twitter...

[bucksfan2]

I like the white ones but I don't really get excited about uniforms. I am more a fan of the traditional ones, the PSU, OSU's, Bama's, etc. I do think these do a good job of not being too flashy. But at the end of the day, they could wear the ugliest uniforms in history, but if they win, I like that more!

[Bob Sheed]

Seriously?

https://twitter.com/JoeGoodberry/status/1384123475686674435?s=20

Oh I know it's me.

Thanks for posting the comparison.

I generally wear the same thing every day and am the last person to consult in regard to clothing or fashion.

White stripes on the helmet might have been cool.

[WVRed]

I noticed the CBS mock this morning has him falling to #79.

This is who they had the Bengals taking:

5. Ja'Marr Chase, WR, LSU
38. Sam Cosmi, OT, Texas
69. Kendrick Green, OL, Illinois
111. Ade Ogundeji, EDGE, Notre Dame
149. Elijah Mitchell, RB, Louisiana
190. Jose Borregales, K, Miami
202. Shemar Jean-Charles, CB, Appalachian State
235. Damar Hamlin, S, Pittsburgh

[WVRed]

Anyone have an opinion if Giovani Bernard will have an impact with the Bucs as a 3rd down back? Does he have more in the tank? I have to assume Arians promised him a role or he would not have signed with TB, but that backfield is crowded and Fournette views himself as a 3rd down option.

He’s an excellent pass catcher and pass blocker for his size. The Patriots used a crowded backfield and it worked with Brady.

[Tony Cloninger]

This is who they had the Bengals taking:

5. Ja'Marr Chase, WR, LSU
38. Sam Cosmi, OT, Texas
69. Kendrick Green, OL, Illinois
111. Ade Ogundeji, EDGE, Notre Dame
149. Elijah Mitchell, RB, Louisiana
190. Jose Borregales, K, Miami
202. Shemar Jean-Charles, CB, Appalachian State
235. Damar Hamlin, S, Pittsburgh

Not taking an egging K. You can also get a RB in FA. Rookie or regular FA. Since Taylor can’t be bothered to actually use on correctly sometimes. They still another OL or LB. maybe a DT.

[WVRed]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210419/a8b4d75cdcd34795da1a617d3c0a503b.jpg

[WVRed]

Not taking an egging K. You can also get a RB in FA. Rookie or regular FA. Since Taylor can’t be bothered to actually use on correctly sometimes. They still another OL or LB. maybe a DT.

I’m higher on Michael Carter than most. Think he could be had in the third round and would be a perfect compliment to Mixon and a replacement for Gio. It won’t hurt my feelings though if they fill other needs though.

[Bob Sheed]

I do like that they included Chad Johnson. Easily the most iconic and enthusiastic Bengal of the 21st Century.

He's my 2nd favorite player of that era, next to Corey Dillon, and Dillon is for sure not cut out for this sort of thing, so good call there too... :lol:

[adkindo]

He’s an excellent pass catcher and pass blocker for his size. The Patriots used a crowded backfield and it worked with Brady.

Fournette is a decent pass catcher, but him and RoJo are both garbage at pass blocking which is why I assume they wanted Bernard as a 3rd down back. The only issue is Fournette has had issues with checking out mentally when he is not getting a lot of snaps.

[adkindo]

This is who they had the Bengals taking:

5. Ja'Marr Chase, WR, LSU
38. Sam Cosmi, OT, Texas
69. Kendrick Green, OL, Illinois
111. Ade Ogundeji, EDGE, Notre Dame
149. Elijah Mitchell, RB, Louisiana
190. Jose Borregales, K, Miami
202. Shemar Jean-Charles, CB, Appalachian State
235. Damar Hamlin, S, Pittsburgh

I noticed it had the Bucs taking the University of Charleston WR in the 7th. He is very interesting....especially if he could maybe be stored on the practice squad for a year or so to work on improving his route running, etc.


251. Buccaneers: Michael Strachan, WR, Charleston

[adkindo]

I’m higher on Michael Carter than most. Think he could be had in the third round and would be a perfect compliment to Mixon and a replacement for Gio. It won’t hurt my feelings though if they fill other needs though.

I like Carter also more than most mocks value him. Some people are surprised to know that he was the leading rusher last year @ UNC....not Javonte Williams.

[membengal]

Every year Arif Hasan (now at The Athletic) compiles a "Consensus Big Board" - which is his survey and average of The Top 300 from 50 industry sharp Big Boards. It is a fairly useful tool to get an idea about the general ranges that players might be available as you move through the draft. If the Bengals take Chase at 5 (or even if they take Sewell at 5 and are looking to double-dip at o-line) here is what the consensus is for o-line in the 30-55 range (Bengals pick at 38 overall in second round):

Here are the o-linemen on on the Consensus Big Board between 30 and 55:

Dickerson 33
Leatherwood 38
Cosmi 39
Humphrey 42
Radunz 46
Eichenberg 47
Mayfield 51
Davis 55

I am quite confident that we will have some large subset of that group available to sift through at 38 if they go Chase at 5.

Frankly, if they go Sewell at 5, I still may want them to sample from that group.

[membengal]

For those wondering about WRs on the Consensus Big Board between 30 and 55 if we go Sewell and need to hit WR in round 2:

Marshall -34
E. Moore - 35
R. Moore - 36

Outside of that range - Bateman was 28 and K. Toney 29 and Dyami Brown was 62.

My targets for 38 at WR if they take Sewell at 5 remain Bateman or Marshall if they slip to 38 or reach for Brown. The others on here are slot guys for sure (R. Moore) or slot guys who you have to hope can learn the outside (E. Moore and K. Toney).

[Ohayou]

Moore can definitely play outside, although probably stays inside. Tennessee is a popular landing spot for him. If Sewell is the pick, I wouldn't mind them doubling up on O-lineman or BPA in round 2 and waiting till the 3rd to draft a WR. I really like Tylan Wallace.

[RiverRat13]

If they take Sewell it is Marshall or bust for me at 38 (unless by some miracle Bateman falls there, which he won't). Double dip at OL (or maybe even take a swing at a DL who drops) and pray Dyami is there in the 3rd.

[membengal]

Moore can definitely play outside, although probably stays inside. Tennessee is a popular landing spot for him. If Sewell is the pick, I wouldn't mind them doubling up on O-lineman or BPA in round 2 and waiting till the 3rd to draft a WR. I really like Tylan Wallace.

I don't know that Elijah Moore can DEFINITELY play outside - he pretty much was slot only at Ole Miss - so there is projection needed there.

[membengal]

As for the draft, the Dolphins really might have played themselves which is hilarious by trading back to 12 and then up to 6 w/ the apparent expectation that the Bengals were definitely going to take Sewell. If Pitts is gone at 4 and Chase at 5, they are apparently interested in trading back out again. Should have just stayed put and taken Chase if that was what they wanted...\

From Matt Miller's notebook today:


4. The Cincinnati Bengals do love Ja’Marr Chase and he could very well be the selection at No. 5 overall. Conventional wisdom points to Penei Sewell or Rashawn Slater, but Chase could pull at the heart strings of the franchise (and the franchise quarterback).

5. Two trade out candidates to watch: The Miami Dolphins (No. 6 overall) and Detroit Lions (No. 7 overall). Miami moved back to the sixth selection, I’m told, because they believed the Bengals would select an offensive lineman. That would leave them with one of the top two pass-catchers. If the Falcons select Pitts and the Bengals select Chase, the Dolphins could move out.

The same goes for Detroit; a team with so many needs that every position is on the table which actually sets up well if a quarterback-needy team wants to move up ahead of the Denver Broncos (No. 9 overall).

[WVRed]

Every year Arif Hasan (now at The Athletic) compiles a "Consensus Big Board" - which is his survey and average of The Top 300 from 50 industry sharp Big Boards. It is a fairly useful tool to get an idea about the general ranges that players might be available as you move through the draft. If the Bengals take Chase at 5 (or even if they take Sewell at 5 and are looking to double-dip at o-line) here is what the consensus is for o-line in the 30-55 range (Bengals pick at 38 overall in second round):

Here are the o-linemen on on the Consensus Big Board between 30 and 55:

Dickerson 33
Leatherwood 38
Cosmi 39
Humphrey 42
Radunz 46
Eichenberg 47
Mayfield 51
Davis 55

I am quite confident that we will have some large subset of that group available to sift through at 38 if they go Chase at 5.

Frankly, if they go Sewell at 5, I still may want them to sample from that group.

That reinforces taking Chase (or Pitts) at 5.

This draft is top heavy at WR and deep on OL in the middle of the second round. If they take Sewell they could double dip at OL but it pushes WR down the board and they could get jumped for any good WR as early as the second round.

[WVRed]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210421/6b23644065c2e5a46f6be7a21ba18111.jpg

[Tony Cloninger]

Go ahead and keep drafting skill players with no guarantees of it leading to consistent winning. For once it would be great to see them go all in on OL and dominate other teams instead of not being able to finish teams off.

[membengal]

Go ahead and keep drafting skill players with no guarantees of it leading to consistent winning. For once it would be great to see them go all in on OL and dominate other teams instead of not being able to finish teams off.

Like w/ Ogbuihi and Fisher. And then Price. When they went all in on first round o-line picks and the Super Bowls came rolling in...

- - - Updated - - -

This update from Burrow is simply fantastic news...


Joe Burrow “very optimistic” about playing Week 1
Posted by Charean Williams on April 20, 2021, 10:18 PM EDT


Joe Burrow underwent reconstructive knee surgery Dec. 2, leaving only nine months before the 2021 season opener. It left doubt about whether he would miss the beginning of his second season.

The Bengals quarterback has no doubt.

“I’m very optimistic about where I’m at and also where the team is at,” Burrow told Cris Collinsworth on a 30-minute Pro Football Focus podcast. “Rehab is going very, very well and lifting is going very, very well. I’m in great shape. Legs feel good; knee feels good. There’s still a long way to go, but I’m expecting to be there on the first snap of 2021.

“I’m expecting to play Game 1. I expect to take part in practice. I’m feeling really good. I’m ahead of schedule.”

Burrow said he began dropping back and throwing more than a week ago. He also is simulating play-action passes to stationary equipment managers.

“I can’t roll out and throw yet,” Burrow said, but “it’s feeling good right now.”

Burrow, the No. 1 overall choice in 2020, threw for 2,688 yards with 13 touchdowns and five interceptions in 10 games as a rookie.

[Tony Cloninger]

You know very well that both those OL picks were Alexander Hines Ketchup specials. The guy was more miss than hit with the OL drafting and development. Since Brown expects the coaches to scout then develop and coach. Alexander was barely good at either.

Have no answer for Price other than injuries and 2 years of Turner.

[membengal]

So your broad strokes statement needed qualifiers then?

[membengal]

They hit line in first round in 2009, 2012, 2015, 2018, and 2019. Hard to claim they somehow are over-doing it on “drafting skill players” as an attack based in fact.

[Tony Cloninger]

So your broad strokes statement needed qualifiers then?

You have a draft loaded with OL depth so yes they should be going all in on the OL since they don’t feel a sense of urgency to even sign a back up C for a player who may not be ready to start the year. Quit looking at the shiny object who you may never be able to pass to.

My facts may not be clear or on point but I recall Mike Browns obsession with the skill players who will bring the fans in while overlooking both the OL and DL. Going back to Klinger and Peter Warrick. I remember his comments. His way of thinking with the obsession with the skill players and letting everything else go to crap.

You could say that the drafting of LB has been the biggest issue more than skill players. That part has been even worse going back to the mid 90s. Takeo Spikes is about all you can say was a good pick. Odell Thurman was a mess. James Francis was lazy and would not even bother to show up most of the time. So many bad LB picks that continued up to 2019.
Let’s hope the 2020 group has at least 1 good player.

Clearly qualifiers are needed when you draft badly. 2009 they draft Smith in the first. They got snowed by the con man at Alabama that Smith was a hard worker who could be relied on. 4th pick was C Luigis from Arkansas in that continued search that is ongoing for someone who is at least half of what Rich Braham was.

2010 you get one year and done Otis Hudson and Reggie Stephens.

2011 you actually get a decent G in Clint Boling in the 4th

2012. Kevin Z. Good pick but of course like Whitworth they just let go because they think they can draft OL very easily. Always talking about we sign our own until they are actually good enough to not be worth it. Like Jonathan Joseph at CB. BS about not being able to afford because of that ever worrying rookie cap they fret about as an excuse.

2013 they actually drafted 3 OL. Most organizations heck a lot can at least turn 1 into a backup at least. Depth. Something this team does even worse than drafting average starters.

2014. Russell Bodine. The horror at C continues.

2015. Already discussed. At this point even with the lack of drafting but 2 good OL and no depth they were still OK with what they had. Yet in 2016-17 it was Christian Westerman and JJ Deilman while letting Whitworth and Kevin Z go.
That’s not valuing the OL. It’s horrific malfeasance.

[KoryMac5]

RG is the most pressing need on the team you could be very happy with Chase in the 1st and an offensive lineman in the 2nd...you could even double dip in the 3rd or 4th for OL depth.

You could also be thrilled with Sewell in the 1st and a wide out in the 2nd...depending on which one is there.

I get the debate but either scenario is win/win as long as you get the guys you are targeting...to me the first scenario is a clearer path...but I like both options.

[membengal]

You have a draft loaded with OL depth so yes they should be going all in on the OL since they don’t feel a sense of urgency to even sign a back up C for a player who may not be ready to start the year. Quit looking at the shiny object who you may never be able to pass to.

My facts may not be clear or on point but I recall Mike Browns obsession with the skill players who will bring the fans in while overlooking both the OL and DL. Going back to Klinger and Peter Warrick. I remember his comments. His way of thinking with the obsession with the skill players and letting everything else go to crap.

You could say that the drafting of LB has been the biggest issue more than skill players. That part has been even worse going back to the mid 90s. Takeo Spikes is about all you can say was a good pick. Odell Thurman was a mess. James Francis was lazy and would not even bother to show up most of the time. So many bad LB picks that continued up to 2019.
Let’s hope the 2020 group has at least 1 good player.

Clearly qualifiers are needed when you draft badly. 2009 they draft Smith in the first. They got snowed by the con man at Alabama that Smith was a hard worker who could be relied on. 4th pick was C Luigis from Arkansas in that continued search that is ongoing for someone who is at least half of what Rich Braham was.

2010 you get one year and done Otis Hudson and Reggie Stephens.

2011 you actually get a decent G in Clint Boling in the 4th

2012. Kevin Z. Good pick but of course like Whitworth they just let go because they think they can draft OL very easily. Always talking about we sign our own until they are actually good enough to not be worth it. Like Jonathan Joseph at CB. BS about not being able to afford because of that ever worrying rookie cap they fret about as an excuse.

2013 they actually drafted 3 OL. Most organizations heck a lot can at least turn 1 into a backup at least. Depth. Something this team does even worse than drafting average starters.

2014. Russell Bodine. The horror at C continues.

2015. Already discussed. At this point even with the lack of drafting but 2 good OL and no depth they were still OK with what they had. Yet in 2016-17 it was Christian Westerman and JJ Deilman while letting Whitworth and Kevin Z go.
That’s not valuing the OL. It’s horrific malfeasance.

It's literally valuing offensive line. That's on top of all the first round picks.

And they can value the offensive line this year at 38 and 69 in a deep o-line draft. You are just wrong to claim that they are falling back into drafting skill players as a value over o-line. If anything, they've done TOO much o-line in round 1 arguably.

In 2011, they went with AJ Green. In 2013, Tyler Eiftert. They were both foundational pieces to really good Bengals teams. Built on Whit, a second round draft pick on line. There's more than one way to approach this in the draft that is very viable. Sewell would be a fine pick. So would Chase.

[membengal]

Quit looking at the shiny object who you may never be able to pass to

This is simply hysterical bull****.

[membengal]

Everyone on this part of the board that are Bengals fans need to listen to the latest Cris Collinsworth podcast episode - his interview with Burrow. I have never heard quite as hard a defense and statement of loyalty to ZT as Burrow gave there. Caught Collinsworth by surprise. Not sure "ZT is on the hot seat" is a legit thing. His bond with Burrow seems pretty legit.

Also, Burrow is REALLY far along in the rehab process. He confirmed he's now making throws dropping back and simulating play action etc. Said only thing he isn't doing yet is throwing off of roll outs. Collinsworth was caught off guard on this point as well.

It's a great listen.

[Bob Sheed]

Give just about any NFL caliber QB 5 seconds in the pocket, and he'll be able to find even mediocre WRs. It's just too difficult to cover receivers for that long. Brady has made a GOAT career of it. At 5 seconds, even a dump off to the RB is an all but guaranteed 5 yards.

Don't get me wrong. At #5, for me, Chase is on the case. (yes that's a Paw Patrol reference, all you parents out there).

But I also agree with the sentiment that if a great to elite oline can somehow be drafted and properly coached... you wouldn't even need an elite WR. Just a few decent ones would do. Burrow, under those circumstances, can make them elite with all the time in the pocket to dissect defenses.

[membengal]

Tom Brady's receiving corp last year was filthy. Evans, Godwin, Gronkowski and Scotty Miller. And then Brady decided even THAT wasn't enough and made the team go out and get Antonio Brown. And he's the likely GOAT at qb.

This team currently has two former 1st round picks at T. I get that we want more at o-line. I do too. But that does not NEED to be at 38. it can be. But it does not NEED to be. They can look at Chase and Sewell and decide who they feel is BPA and who fits them better. Especially given that they can address the RG need at 38 and/or 69.

[Bob Sheed]

Tom Brady's receiving corp last year was filthy. Evans, Godwin, Gronkowski and Scotty Miller. And then Brady decided even THAT wasn't enough and made the team go out and get Antonio Brown. And he's the likely GOAT at qb.

This team currently has two former 1st round picks at T. I get that we want more at o-line. I do too. But that does not NEED to be at 38. it can be. But it does not NEED to be. They can look at Chase and Sewell and decide who they feel is BPA and who fits them better. Especially given that they can address the RG need at 38 and/or 69.

Agreed, but you can't just look at last year for Brady. He's such a legend that he can assemble video game teams at this point, on reputation alone.

You have to look at his entire body of work, when he did and didn't have great offensive lines. And not just him. Look at any great pocket passer who played long enough to have a lines ranging from great to terrible. Locally, Carson Palmer comes to mind.

It's all water under the bridge anyway I suppose. Chase is a no-brainer pick at this point unless they trade down. I think the underlying sentiment though, is if you draft a bunch of skill players on offense and ignore the trenches, it's not a recipe for success.

[membengal]

Agreed, but you can't just look at last year for Brady. He's such a legend that he can assemble video game teams at this point, on reputation alone.

You have to look at his entire body of work, when he did and didn't have great offensive lines. And not just him. Look at any great pocket passer who played long enough to have a lines ranging from great to terrible. Locally, Carson Palmer comes to mind.

It's all water under the bridge anyway I suppose. Chase is a no-brainer pick at this point unless they trade down. I think the underlying sentiment though, is if you draft a bunch of skill players on offense and ignore the trenches, it's not a recipe for success.

His greatest years came when he had Randy Moss. When Gronkowski was ascendant. Even the GOATs need weapons.

[membengal]

Everyone on this part of the board that are Bengals fans need to listen to the latest Cris Collinsworth podcast episode - his interview with Burrow. I have never heard quite as hard a defense and statement of loyalty to ZT as Burrow gave there. Caught Collinsworth by surprise. Not sure "ZT is on the hot seat" is a legit thing. His bond with Burrow seems pretty legit.

Also, Burrow is REALLY far along in the rehab process. He confirmed he's now making throws dropping back and simulating play action etc. Said only thing he isn't doing yet is throwing off of roll outs. Collinsworth was caught off guard on this point as well.

It's a great listen.

Here's the link, for those interested:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cris-collinsworth-podcast-featuring-richard-sherman/id1533558695

[bucksfan2]

Tom Brady's receiving corp last year was filthy. Evans, Godwin, Gronkowski and Scotty Miller. And then Brady decided even THAT wasn't enough and made the team go out and get Antonio Brown. And he's the likely GOAT at qb.

This team currently has two former 1st round picks at T. I get that we want more at o-line. I do too. But that does not NEED to be at 38. it can be. But it does not NEED to be. They can look at Chase and Sewell and decide who they feel is BPA and who fits them better. Especially given that they can address the RG need at 38 and/or 69.

Evans was a 1st rounder, Godwin a 3rd rounder, Miller a 6th rounder, and Gronk a special case who was a 2nd rounder.

There is value up and down a draft for WR's, and in Tampa's case, Brady makes them all better. I would argue that KC lost the game because TB got after Mahomes due to a weakened line.

The crazy thing about WR's, is a year or so after the draft there are always guys who end up being "Pro Bowl Caliber" players who come out of nowhere or later in the draft.

AJ was a great pick (one I was against at the time) and an all time Bengal great. But the Bengals have had a good history of finding WR's late in the draft and turning them into impact players.

[membengal]

And also a great history of 1st round WRs. Isaac Curtis. AJ Green. Eddie Brown. It works both ways.

[Tony Cloninger]

This is simply hysterical bull****.

Yes I’m the Karen of Bengals fandom.

Have you been watching this team since 1991 and read Mike Brown’s view on how a football team needs to be built.

He never values G or C. Just plug in and play. Average is more than ok. If that.

If Brown grip has been loosened hopefully it will change. Not signing the multitude of affordable G or the C that just signed with KC. Or Nick Martin from HOU. Just for depth says no. If they had then I would not worry about waiting until the 2nd round and then hope another in the 3rd. After a run of OL heading into the 2nd I can see the Bengals going DE in the 3rd unless they are signing Kerrigan after all. I can also see them taking a chance on the Alabama OL with the Medicaid. They like taking chances on those like they have before. Since the draft is their FA they cannot mess around with projects or medical issues or problem children.

I wish they would have traded down to try and get 2 OL in the 1st. If that was available. They could go WR and DE after that. Even another LB.

Collinsworth is shocked that anyone would like to be a Bengal. He loves the Steelers.

[bucksfan2]

And also a great history of 1st round WRs. Isaac Curtis. AJ Green. Eddie Brown. It works both ways.

I mean...... Curtis and Brown were drafted before I was born.

Sure it works both ways, I could list Munoz, Willie, and Levi as solid OL drafted in the first round.

[membengal]

I mean...... Curtis and Brown were drafted before I was born.

Sure it works both ways, I could list Munoz, Willie, and Levi as solid OL drafted in the first round.

Of course. But that's why claiming that one approach is the for sure right approach is so off base. They both can work. Chase is equally as viable a draft option as Sewell.

Also, I am old(er) so...I saw both Curtis and Brown play. And, of course, AJ Green. I know what transcendent receivers can mean to a team. Is Chase transcendent? A lot of signs point to yes, potentially. So picking him is not crazy, if that's the route they take.

[Tony Cloninger]

And also a great history of 1st round WRs. Isaac Curtis. AJ Green. Eddie Brown. It works both ways.

Yes and it was for a way bigger need than it is now.

1973 the Bengals had Chip Myers and Speedy Thomas as WR. And Speedy was losing his speed because of injuries. At a time when you ran the ball 75% of the time and carried 5-6 RB to get an outlier like Curtis who was Bob Hayes like was big. The OL was already set with Bob Jonson. Vernon Holland. Rufus Mayes. Pat Matson. Stan Walters who was very good but then after he was traded to Philly before 1976 became All Pro there in the late 70s. Their OL was a top 10 line.

1985 they had an even better line with Munoz. Montoya. Wilson at RT. They had drafted Kozerski and Reimers the year before. They had Remington at C who I did not value as much but he was good from 1983-86 but fell off badly by 1987.
They had a Big need at WR. Curtis had retired and was a non factor in 1984. Kreider and Mike Martin were good 3-4 guys and Verser had already been a bust.

What I remember about that was watching the East-West shrine game in 1984. Seeing Rice catch passes after separation from CB and looking very good. Never heard of him. Eddie Brown was the bigger name. I knew either one would have been great to draft. Bill Walsh did too and he traded up to get him that year.

[membengal]

Again, this team has two first round picks at its T slots right now. Depending on the health of Hopkins, a 1st round pick at C if Price starts (and he was quite good under Pollack there in his rookie year).

You will have to miss me with this gaping need at T on this team.

Sewell maybe should be the pick if they determine he is BPA on their board, but not based on OMGBURROWGONNADIE. Just, stop.

As for a "way bigger need then than now", miss me with that too. It is literally false. We, again, as I have said a million times on here, are a base "11" offense. We start three wides. We currently have...two WRs for those three spots. There were 104 targets last year to AJ Green that will need to be replaced. Green was terrible and caught just 47 of them. WR is a massive need that cannot and should not be filled with Auden Tate or Mike Thomas. That's a terrible plan.

So, yes, WR is a massive immediate need on this team. If not Chase at 5 they will need to hit it with an OUTSIDE wr (not a slot, which this draft has a lot of) at 38.

The two holes on this team as it enters the summer are WR and RG. Those spots will be hit at 5 and 38 in some order. The question is, what order. But don't make the case for Sewell by acting like we are good at WR when we are not. We were in 3 wides literally 88% of the time last year. Most in the NFL.

[Tony Cloninger]

Again, this team has two first round picks at its T slots right now. Depending on the health of Hopkins, a 1st round pick at C if Price starts (and he was quite good under Pollack there in his rookie year).

You will have to miss me with this gaping need at T on this team.

Sewell maybe should be the pick if they determine he is BPA on their board, but not based on OMGBURROWGONNADIE. Just, stop.

Who the heck said Burrow gonna die? He gonna get possibly hurt again sure especially with Taylor game planning to not help protect his QB better.

They still need Guards. Sure get one or 2 in the 2nd because I think in the 3rd they go DE. But depth is an issue big time. And since football injuries is an oxymoron as in they are always hurt. You need better depth than Michael Jordan. And who are the starters really at G. That guy from Dallas? Barely average. Spain is ok.

I like Pollack fine but he’s not McNally or Joe Bugel.

[membengal]

Carson Palmer got hurt behind a top 5 line. **** happens. You can't ever be certain of that. Sewell doesn't keep him safe either necessarily. No guarantees. Maybe a WR who gets open quicker protects Joe better. He hasn't had that here.

[Tony Cloninger]

Yes that’s true. Carson got hurt by some bad luck to go along with Steinback’s inept blocking method of putting Kimo down and then not keeping him down and just let him go. Maybe he didn’t expect him to crawl like a snake to a set Palmer and grab his leg. I get that it’s no guarantee. My point had been going in all in us with FA too. A Guard and C could have been signed that were better than what they have. To start. Not for depth. Then you draft another T and G for depth at worst this year. If they are better then they start and the FA is depth. That’s going all in to me. You have been around long enough to know Brown thinks a great QB is all you need. The OL can be average. That’s BS.

[bucksfan2]

Again, this team has two first round picks at its T slots right now. Depending on the health of Hopkins, a 1st round pick at C if Price starts (and he was quite good under Pollack there in his rookie year).

You will have to miss me with this gaping need at T on this team.

Sewell maybe should be the pick if they determine he is BPA on their board, but not based on OMGBURROWGONNADIE. Just, stop.

As for a "way bigger need then than now", miss me with that too. It is literally false. We, again, as I have said a million times on here, are a base "11" offense. We start three wides. We currently have...two WRs for those three spots. There were 104 targets last year to AJ Green that will need to be replaced. Green was terrible and caught just 47 of them. WR is a massive need that cannot and should not be filled with Auden Tate or Mike Thomas. That's a terrible plan.

So, yes, WR is a massive immediate need on this team. If not Chase at 5 they will need to hit it with an OUTSIDE wr (not a slot, which this draft has a lot of) at 38.

The two holes on this team as it enters the summer are WR and RG. Those spots will be hit at 5 and 38 in some order. The question is, what order. But don't make the case for Sewell by acting like we are good at WR when we are not. We were in 3 wides literally 88% of the time last year. Most in the NFL.

They have a stopgap T for next season. Williams is still somewhat of a question mark at one T spot. The future of the line needs to be addressed in this draft.

The idea that Billy Price is going to do anything is laughable at this point. I thought he would have been a better G than C, but reality is, he is backup fodder at this point.

You know who would be an awesome WR on this team, the 2nd round pick of Michael Thomas! WR's drafted in later rounds have a much higher success rate than lineman. Linemen drafted in the later rounds are often "developmental" WR's can make a far quicker impact.

The Bengals will draft Chase, because Brown likes his sports cars even though his foundation is crumbling. Chase will be good, Sewell will be a perennial all pro. Oh well, that is the story of being a Bengals fan.

[membengal]

Unless Chase is a perennial all-pro and Sewell will be good.

[bucksfan2]

Unless Chase is a perennial all-pro and Sewell will be good.

Yep, I would take Sewell in this situation as well. Lock up the QB and LT spot for a decade and then figure everything else out.

[Tony Cloninger]

Can we talk about how horrible they have been at drafting/developing LB. A lot worse than anything in the OL.

[membengal]

Can we talk about how horrible they have been at drafting/developing LB. A lot worse than anything in the OL.

They are indeed not good at it. Thank god the NFL as a whole has made that position less valuable.

- - - Updated - - -

Also, on the protect Burrow or his knees will die crowd, please watch this video. There are no guarantees w/ any pick on line that make Burrow 100% safe.

https://twitter.com/CJAnthonyCUI/status/1384911636629270533?s=20

[Wonderful Monds]

Seriously?

https://twitter.com/JoeGoodberry/status/1384123475686674435?s=20

I think the one thing that’s missing on the new ones that makes them a little too plain is that the shoulders could use a contrasting color, the way they’re black on the old color rush uniforms. That’s one small tweak I’d make but otherwise they’re good.

[Wonderful Monds]

Also this has been described as one of the thinnest drafts in NFL history, I think it would be an absolutely bonkers nutcase move to not draft the LT at 5 just months removed from Burrow’s leg getting exploded.

I’m not gambling the future health of my young generational talent QB on bringing able to find a later round OL in “the thinnest draft in NFL history.” The Bengals are stupid enough that’s probably what they will do.

[RedTeamGo!]

His greatest years came when he had Randy Moss. When Gronkowski was ascendant. Even the GOATs need weapons.

Tom Brady made a backup QB from Kent State one of the best WRs in the NFL.

[membengal]

Also this has been described as one of the thinnest drafts in NFL history, I think it would be an absolutely bonkers nutcase move to not draft the LT at 5 just months removed from Burrow’s leg getting exploded.

I’m not gambling the future health of my young generational talent QB on bringing able to find a later round OL in “the thinnest draft in NFL history.” The Bengals are stupid enough that’s probably what they will do.

Follow the link I posted to Sewell getting Herbert's knee caved in or nah? There's no guarantees.

[RedTeamGo!]

I personally would select Sewell, but I’ve come around to not thinking it would be crazy to take Chase.

With that said: I don’t really get the argument Burrow wanting chase is a great thing/factor. It’s his buddy, of course he wants him to get drafted that high and by his team. This is professional football, not a sandlot game. I would hope the bengals would not actually take that into consideration.

[bucksfan2]

Follow the link I posted to Sewell getting Herbert's knee caved in or nah? There's no guarantees.

Its one play. It really proves nothing.

[membengal]

Its one play. It really proves nothing.

It shows that drafting Sewell does not guarantee Burrow health which has been the weird slant from the pro-Sewell crowd for too long now. It confirms that Sewell needs some work, and there is some projection with him. And it is a reminder that taking him does not mean Joe never gets hit again in a bad way, which has been too long the bad faith argument against Chase.

[bucksfan2]

It shows that drafting Sewell does not guarantee Burrow health which has been the weird slant from the pro-Sewell crowd for too long now. It confirms that Sewell needs some work, and there is some projection with him. And it is a reminder that taking him does not mean Joe never gets hit again in a bad way, which has been too long the bad faith argument against Chase.

Its akin to posting a video of Chase dropping a ball and saying, look he can't catch.

Sewell will let up some sacks, he will get some penalties, he will have bad plays. Posting one video of one time when Sewell let up a low QB as proof that he is going to get Burrow hurt is ludicrous.

[membengal]

Its akin to posting a video of Chase dropping a ball and saying, look he can't catch.

Sewell will let up some sacks, he will get some penalties, he will have bad plays. Posting one video of one time when Sewell let up a low QB as proof that he is going to get Burrow hurt is ludicrous.

Lost track, is a dropped ball the same as getting a QBs knee caved in? Has anyone ANYONE advocating for Chase said that if he is drafted he will never drop a ball? Because I have never heard that.

And I did NOT post that to say that Sewell would get Burrow hurt. I DID post it to say that even with Sewell, QBs take bad hits.

What I am saying is that it is serious bad faith argument to say that passing on Sewell means you don't care about Burrow. And it is further a serious bad faith argument to say that drafting Sewell erases that risk. And that HAS been said. A lot. There was even a stupid meme about it.

[RiverRat13]

Tom Brady made a backup QB from Kent State one of the best WRs in the NFL.

I hope becoming Tom Brady isn't the expectation put on Burrow.

[WVRed]

Its one play. It really proves nothing.

This was one play too.

https://youtu.be/R5SyOF0vTjM

[bucksfan2]

Lost track, is a dropped ball the same as getting a QBs knee caved in? Has anyone ANYONE advocating for Chase said that if he is drafted he will never drop a ball? Because I have never heard that.

And I did NOT post that to say that Sewell would get Burrow hurt. I DID post it to say that even with Sewell, QBs take bad hits.

What I am saying is that it is serious bad faith argument to say that passing on Sewell means you don't care about Burrow. And it is further a serious bad faith argument to say that drafting Sewell erases that risk. And that HAS been said. A lot. There was even a stupid meme about it.

Ignoring the OLine like they have for a couple of years now means you don't have a clue what you are doing. You need to protect Burrow, and yes, regardless of who you draft or sign, Burrow will be hit.

What they did last year in regards to the OLine was borderline criminal. It must be addressed, if you think there is value in the 2nd and is comparable to Sewell, that is your opinion. I think Sewell is more of sure a think than Chase is, and think OLine is a MUST early in the draft.

[RedTeamGo!]

I hope becoming Tom Brady isn't the expectation put on Burrow.

I agree, just pointing it out

[Wonderful Monds]

Follow the link I posted to Sewell getting Herbert's knee caved in or nah? There's no guarantees.

Of course there’s not a guarantee, I don’t think anyone has ever said if they draft Sewell he’ll definitely never get injured again. But it’s a big step towards helping out with protecting him. And he desperately needs it.

[Redsfaithful]

It must be addressed, if you think there is value in the 2nd and is comparable to Sewell, that is your opinion. I think Sewell is more of sure a think than Chase is, and think OLine is a MUST early in the draft.

But it has been a little bit, they have a new starting RT and a new coach (this is only notable because the last coach was actually harmful to production.) They have a little more guard depth than they did to start last year, and this is all before the draft where they will add another high pick, since I think we all expect them to take OL in the first two rounds.

This might have been overthinking from the start - they added nothing to the WR room and lost a guy with over 100 targets vs. an offensive line that doesn't actually have a tackle job open in 2021. Of course Sewell would start somewhere if drafted, but that's just the reality of the situation. I think both guys have All-Pro ceilings so then you move on to what the Bengals actually need and I don't know that it actually is offensive lineman before receiver.

[WrongVerb]

I'm getting to where I think the play should be trade back, but not so much that the team can't take Slater, or maybe Aloe-Vera or whatever his name is.

[Tony Cloninger]

I'm getting to where I think the play should be trade back, but not so much that the team can't take Slater, or maybe Aloe-Vera or whatever his name is.

Or take both if you can get 2 1st rounders. Or is it too late for that.

[KoryMac5]

I'm getting to where I think the play should be trade back, but not so much that the team can't take Slater, or maybe Aloe-Vera or whatever his name is.

Tobin talked about that today...Left open the option of trading back but not too far...I think they would be willing to go back to Denver's spot at 9 you still have an outside shot at Sewell or Slater. It would take a good offer to do that but I think they have zeroed in on 3 players. Sewell, Slater and Chase.

[membengal]

If they have Chase, Sewell, Pitts in a group of 3 they can only go as far as Detroit. If they have Slater in that group too, they can only go as far as Carolina. That's why I am pretty skeptical of a tradeback - Tobin said they don't want to miss the elite options they have on their plate now - and basically said they would only trade back if it didn't take them out of one of those options...

[RiverRat13]

If they have Chase, Sewell, Pitts in a group of 3 they can only go as far as Detroit. If they have Slater in that group too, they can only go as far as Carolina. That's why I am pretty skeptical of a tradeback - Tobin said they don't want to miss the elite options they have on their plate now - and basically said they would only trade back if it didn't take them out of one of those options...Depends on who the 49ers take. If they really do go Mac Jones, then you would have to think two teams come up to get Lance and Fields.

[membengal]

IF four QBs go 1-4, and pitts/chase/Sewell is a group of 3, can only go back to 7 and be assured of getting one of them. If they see slater in that group, can only go back to eight safely. Otherwise, if go to 9 entirely possible to miss that group entirely, and Tobin said they wouldn’t risk that.

[membengal]

Don’t see five qbs going in top 5. Even four is unprecedented.

[WrongVerb]

Don’t see five qbs going in top 5. Even four is unprecedented.

Agreed, it would be unprecedented. But if there's a year it could happen, it's this year.

[RiverRat13]

IF four QBs go 1-4, and pitts/chase/Sewell is a group of 3, can only go back to 7 and be assured of getting one of them. If they see slater in that group, can only go back to eight safely. Otherwise, if go to 9 entirely possible to miss that group entirely, and Tobin said they wouldn’t risk that.

If 1-4 are QBs, you trade back to 9 with Denver who will also take a QB. Worst case scenario would be:

1-5: QBs
6: Chase
7: Pitts
8: Sewell
9: Bengals get Slater

Let's say it goes like this:

1: Lawrence
2: Wilson
3: Jones
4: Pitts

Bengals trade back to 9. Denver takes Fields or Lance. Worst case is Chase, Sewell, Slater go 6-8 - which I see as highly unlikely but it would be the worst case. I would guess Detroit or Carolina trade out with someone coming up to take the last QB, but for argument's sake let's say that doesn't happen. Now the Bengals are once again in the action spot at 9 for teams to come up to take the last QB. You'd potentially have NE, WFT, and Chicago all making a play to do so. So you'd have a good backup plan if those 4 guys are all gone by the time you get to 9.

Now if Fields or Lance goes 3rd, that would end any chance of trading back in my mind. I don't see teams wanting to come up for Jones.

The bigger issue is that Taylor needs to win this year. I think taking Chase is the best move for 2021. Taking Sewell or trading back would probably be the better moves for the long term.

[WrongVerb]

Now if Fields or Lance goes 3rd, that would end any chance of trading back in my mind. I don't see teams wanting to come up for Jones.

This was my assessment as well. The 49ers have to take Jones at #3 for this trade back scenario to play out hugely in the Bengals favor, because, as you point out, other teams aren't going to make the move up for Jones.

[Todd Gack]

Lost track, is a dropped ball the same as getting a QBs knee caved in? Has anyone ANYONE advocating for Chase said that if he is drafted he will never drop a ball? Because I have never heard that.

And I did NOT post that to say that Sewell would get Burrow hurt. I DID post it to say that even with Sewell, QBs take bad hits.

What I am saying is that it is serious bad faith argument to say that passing on Sewell means you don't care about Burrow. And it is further a serious bad faith argument to say that drafting Sewell erases that risk. And that HAS been said. A lot. There was even a stupid meme about it.

https://twitter.com/joereedy/status/1330603257748570112?s=20

Who on here has said Joe can't get hurt with a good line? Carson got unlucky with a very good line. Our QB got hit historically bad last year. It's just a bad take to say "Well, anyone could get hurt with 1 hit!"

Of course! ANd no one is disagreeing with you. I'll repeat this once again: I'm fine if Chase is the pick but when you "wait" until the 2nd round to protect our most valuable asset, it doesn't really tell me the team truly does care about protecting Burrow. If you want to take that chance and roll with it, that's fine. But be prepared for the consequences.

"Don't worry guys. We'll just select one of these other OL who aren't as good as the ones we could take earlier."

[bucksfan2]

We keep talking about a group of three, Chase, Sewell, and Pitts. I have seen absolutely no speculation that the Bengals are entertaining Pitts. And as big of a mistake I think it will be to pass up Sewell, I think its a massive mistake to take Pitts.

[membengal]

We keep talking about a group of three, Chase, Sewell, and Pitts. I have seen absolutely no speculation that the Bengals are entertaining Pitts. And as big of a mistake I think it will be to pass up Sewell, I think its a massive mistake to take Pitts.

Pretty sure they won't take Pitts. But pretty much all observers group those 3 as elite premium prospects on their own tier. So have to include Pitts if that is the conversation being had - about trading back - when Tobin said they don't want to trade far enough back to lose the tier they are currently choosing from.

[RiverRat13]

What if Miami trades up to 4 and takes Chase?

[WrongVerb]

What if Miami trades up to 4 and takes Chase?

That likely leaves Fields and Lance and gives the Bengals a good chance to trade down.

[membengal]

What if Miami trades up to 4 and takes Chase?

They they have Sewell or trade down.

[Kingspoint]

Chiefs acquired OT Orlando Brown, the No. 58 pick in the 2021 draft, and a 2022 sixth-round selection from the Ravens in exchange for the No. 31 overall pick, a 2021 third- and fourth-round pick, and a fifth-round selection in the 2022 draft. Brown, a Pro Bowl player for Baltimore at both its left and right tackle spots, arrives as Kansas City's projected left tackle on the final year of his contract. It's another move that revamps and fortifies the team's offensive line ahead of the 2021 season, adding the 24-year-old alongside Joe Thuney, Kyle Long, and Austin Blythe.

That's how you protect a franchise Quarterback, if you are even half-serious about winning a SuperBowl. You don't waste a quality opportunity by being stupid and drafting a Receiver when a once-in-20-year opportunity presents itself for grabbing a LT to protect for Life your franchise QB.

[KoryMac5]

I was listening to Dane Brugler on the local ESPN outlet and he reported that if Sewell had come out last yr he would have been the 4th tackle taken...not sure why you continue to think Sewell is a once in a lifetime prospect...he's a good prospect and one I think the Bengals might end up with especially if the reports are true in regards to ATL trying to deal Julio.

[RiverRat13]

I was listening to Dane Brugler on the local ESPN outlet and he reported that if Sewell had come out last yr he would have been the 4th tackle taken...not sure why you continue to think Sewell is a once in a lifetime prospect...he's a good prospect and one I think the Bengals might end up with especially if the reports are true in regards to ATL trying to deal Julio.And he's not alone in saying that.

[Kingspoint]

I'm convinced they will take Chase and address "Tackle" in the 2nd or 3rd Round, leaning towards drafting a RT who can also play G, not a LT.

[Kingspoint]

I was listening to Dane Brugler on the local ESPN outlet and he reported that if Sewell had come out last yr he would have been the 4th tackle taken...not sure why you continue to think Sewell is a once in a lifetime prospect...he's a good prospect and one I think the Bengals might end up with especially if the reports are true in regards to ATL trying to deal Julio.

Draft analysts always undervalue West Coast schools not in Southern California. They did it with Herbert last season. They are doing it with Herbert's LT this season.

[Big Red Smokey]

Recently the Bengals have had absolutely terrible history in developing early round Offensive Linemen.

Cedric
Fisher
Price

Jonah - Jury still out but showed some promise last year.

Signing a guy like Reiff and bringing back Frank should bring some stability and improvement across the board.

I'm totally fine with taking a playmaking WR at 5, esp considering they ran more 11 personnel then any other team in football, taking Eichenberg/Leatherwood in R2 and hopefully fitting them in at guard with potential to maybe move to tackle next offseason, and then use the cap space on already developed O-Linemen in the offseason next year while having your offensive playmakers under rookie deals.

[Todd Gack]

Draft analysts always undervalue West Coast schools not in Southern California. They did it with Herbert last season. They are doing it with Herbert's LT this season.

I think this is actually a fair criticism.

[oregonred]

Chiefs acquired OT Orlando Brown, the No. 58 pick in the 2021 draft, and a 2022 sixth-round selection from the Ravens in exchange for the No. 31 overall pick, a 2021 third- and fourth-round pick, and a fifth-round selection in the 2022 draft. Brown, a Pro Bowl player for Baltimore at both its left and right tackle spots, arrives as Kansas City's projected left tackle on the final year of his contract. It's another move that revamps and fortifies the team's offensive line ahead of the 2021 season, adding the 24-year-old alongside Joe Thuney, Kyle Long, and Austin Blythe.

That's how you protect a franchise Quarterback, if you are even half-serious about winning a SuperBowl. You don't waste a quality opportunity by being stupid and drafting a Receiver when a once-in-20-year opportunity presents itself for grabbing a LT to protect for Life your franchise QB.

I thought the Ravens had a franchise QB to protect...

[Oxilon]

I thought the Ravens had a franchise QB to protect...

Orlando Brown wanted to play Left Tackle and the Ravens already have an All Pro in Ronnie Stanley. Orlando Brown forcing the Raven's hand isn't exactly the same as the Bengals failing to protect Joe Burrow.

[oregonred]

Draft analysts always undervalue West Coast schools not in Southern California. They did it with Herbert last season. They are doing it with Herbert's LT this season.

I think the consensus is pretty clear that Sewell offers the most upside and potential while Slater is the safer, ready to play Day 1 pick. i am not seeing a bias against Sewell other than the usual Mock Drafts x.0 that need to create storylines for continued clicks

[Tony Cloninger]

I really wish they could have traded back to get Slayer if possible he would still be further back then the USC G. If they got what extra 2nd then you WR and DE.

If you had what Miami got with an extra 3rd then you can take a chance on that Alabama Man who can play G-C but his Medicals still have to check out. He can’t just be someone you hope will need a year off. Munoz had knee issues too at a time when medical was not anywhere close to what it is now.

[WrongVerb]

Dolphins Trade Ereck Flowers To WFT (https://www.profootballrumors.com/2021/04/dolphins-trade-ereck-flowers-to-wft)


The Dolphins have agreed to trade Ereck Flowers to the Washington Football Team (Twitter link via NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport). The guard will head to D.C. in a swap of late-round picks.

The deal frees up cap room for the Dolphins, who will have to allocate lots of dollars to their oversized draft class. On Thursday, they’ll start things off with two first-round choices at No. 6 and No. 18 overall.

Sounds like the Dolphins expect Pitts and Chase to be gone by the time they pick at #6. Or else they're fine with selecting Slater at that point over either Chase or Pitts (or both).

[Kingspoint]

I thought the Ravens had a franchise QB to protect...

They do. That's why year after year they have a good Offensive Line. They never have a problem replacing one Pro Bowl Offensive Lineman after another. They place a higher premium on the Center position than any franchise in the NFL. They don't ever "go with what they have".

[membengal]

Their center last year literally had the yips and couldn’t snap the ball.

[membengal]

They’ve had a hole at guard since Osemele left and then compounded when Yanda retired. Their line was a mess last year. The locals here wouldn’t stop talking about how ****ty the line was.

[Kingspoint]

They’ve had a hole at guard since Osemele left and then compounded when Yanda retired. Their line was a mess last year. The locals here wouldn’t stop talking about how ****ty the line was.

And, they will have it fixed in one year. It's what they do. You just mentioned they had unexpected events. Add no camp because of COVID, which is the strength of Baltimore, and it just wasn't possible to fix it last year.

[WVRed]

Billy Prices fifth year option declined. Not surprising but sad nonetheless.

[RiverRat13]

Billy Prices fifth year option declined. Not surprising but sad nonetheless.

With the cap expanding and another draft pick not needing an extension, I'd expect one more active free agency season from the Bengals next winter.

[RiverRat13]

Broncos trade for Bridgewater. Running out of trade partners. Someone like the Patriots or Bears would have to make a ridiculous offer at this point, and both could probably wait until 7, 8, or 9 now to do so.

[Kingspoint]

Broncos trade for Bridgewater. Running out of trade partners. Someone like the Patriots or Bears would have to make a ridiculous offer at this point, and both could probably wait until 7, 8, or 9 now to do so.

Wrong thread, but since it's here I'll respond.

DEN is only paying $3M of the $10 owed Bridgewater. CAR is paying the rest. They only gave up a 6th Rd pick, too.

Doesn't change the Broncos' plans at all. Nobody is willing to trade with them at a fair price to get a QB worthy of what they would have to give up to get him, so the plan is still to take Kyle Trask of Florida with the 40th pick and grab the best Defender with the 9th pick. Trask, Bridgewater and Lock will battle it out in camp. If Lock doesn't win it, he'll get traded for a conditional pick.

[RiverRat13]

https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/4/28/22407707/nfl-draft-rumors-detroit-lions-attempted-to-trade-up-for-jamarr-chase

[WrongVerb]

NFL writer says Bengals could draft Ja’Marr Chase to ‘stick it’ to A.J. Green (https://www.cincyjungle.com/2021/4/27/22405933/nfl-rumors-draft-news-bengals-jamarr-chase-tony-pauline-bs)




One of those stories comes from Pro Football Network insider Tony Pauline, who put out an interesting rumor he heard as to why the Bengals may actually draft wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase over offensive tackle Penei Sewell.


Could the Cincinnati Bengals really pass up offensive tackle Penei Sewell in favor of receiver Ja’Marr Chase?

The answer is yes, but a source close to the team tells me it has little to do with the Burrow to Chase connection at LSU in 2019. “You have to understand the mentality of the Bengals’ front office,” my source told me. “They got a damn good receiver in Tee Higgins last year, and they must protect Burrow. But the way they see it is the team lost A.J. Green, and after what turned into a contentious relationship, the priority of many in the front office is to replace Green with another receiver and stick it to him.”


WTF???

[WVRed]

Any word on what Lapham is hearing?

[texasdave]

Any word on what Lapham is hearing?


Lapham made his prediction on the latest Bengals Booth Podcast.

"I'm almost 50/50, I'll be honest with ya. I'm almost 50/50, but I am going to go Sewell," he said. "It's like 1 and 1a and I can almost reverse them [Chase and Sewell]. If you've got a chance to solidify your offensive line with a guy like him and if he starts out inside at guard so be it."

https://www.si.com/nfl/bengals/gm-report/penei-sewell-jamarr-chase-dave-lapham-prediction-for-bengals-fifth-pick

[Tony Cloninger]

NFL writer says Bengals could draft Ja’Marr Chase to ‘stick it’ to A.J. Green (https://www.cincyjungle.com/2021/4/27/22405933/nfl-rumors-draft-news-bengals-jamarr-chase-tony-pauline-bs)



WTF???


A truly pathetic article that should be called out on. Hatchet job on the Bengal FO. Even with their many faults.

[membengal]

NFL writer says Bengals could draft Ja’Marr Chase to ‘stick it’ to A.J. Green (https://www.cincyjungle.com/2021/4/27/22405933/nfl-rumors-draft-news-bengals-jamarr-chase-tony-pauline-bs)



WTF???

It literally makes no sense on any level. It's clearly made up. All of the folks that cover the team have collectively called bull**** on it.

[Ohayou]

AJ Green, one month ago:


“Cincinnati will always be my first love,” said Green, via Bengals.com. “That city embraced me. My kids were both born when I was there. That’s all we know. Like any business, everything comes to an end at some point. I’m very grateful to the Brown family. They took a risk on the kid at a young age and changed my life forever.”

Despite the way things ended, Green still had nothing but nice things to say about the Bengals’ organization and team president Mike Brown.

“I love Mr. Brown. He’s the most misunderstood man ever. Unbelievable. Unbelievable dude,” Green said. “I don’t think he wanted to talk about me leaving.

“Because, I was very special to his heart and what I meant to the city. But I think he understood.”

https://www.cincyjungle.com/2021/3/19/22339266/bengals-free-agency-a-j-green-farewell-cincinnati-arizona-cardinals-news

[WrongVerb]

Glad to hear that's all B.S.

[Kingspoint]

The whole world knows it's Chase.

[membengal]

Welcome to me three months ago.

- - - Updated - - -

As for tonight, matt miller’s seven round mock that is out this AM is a useful frame for tonight. In Matt Miller’s final seven round mock here were the o-line and WR after pick 37 still available:

O-line : Eichenberg, Cosmi, radunz, little, mayfield, leatherwood

WR: Marshall, Brown

So, as I sit here on draft day, I am comfortable with either way they go at 5. Still prefer chase plus o-line at 38, but if they go Sewell plus either brown or Marshall at 38 (would prefer brown as less medical flags), that’s fine by me too.

[RedTeamGo!]

Weird that Daniel Jeremiah mocked Sewell to them yesterday

[membengal]

Shrager get just went Sewell to them too. Matt miller’s that just dropped was chase. Brugler that just dropped was chase.

Could absolutely happen that way (Sewell). They genuinely can’t go wrong with the player if they go either Sewell or chase. I am content. Still want chase, will be equally as happy with Sewell.

If I was forced to bet my mortgage, I think they are going chase.

[Hillsdale87]

Shrager get just went Sewell to them too. Matt miller’s that just dropped was chase. Brugler that just dropped was chase.

Could absolutely happen that way (Sewell). They genuinely can’t go wrong with the player if they go either Sewell or chase. I am content. Still want chase, will be equally as happy with Sewell.

If I was forced to bet my mortgage, I think they are going chase.

Schrager is covering his bases. He said he leaned Chase when he was talking to Bill Simmons on yesterday's podcast. I think he's just guessing, which is what all the mock draft guys are doing because the Bengals haven't given any hints. Either way, it's going to be exciting. No matter what the Bengals are going to get a guy who was the best at his position before he was even draft eligible.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[membengal]

McShay just went chase. Chase is still most logical guess based on how they have handled the off-season.

[WVRed]

McShay just went chase. Chase is still most logical guess based on how they have handled the off-season.

So did Kiper.

[RedTeamGo!]

I think Bengals are going to draft Chase at 5.

I believe surprise of the first round is there is going to be a big run on OTs middle to end of first round and it’s going to screw the bengals out of a solid OT at 38.

[membengal]

I think Bengals are going to draft Chase at 5.

I believe surprise of the first round is there is going to be a big run on OTs middle to end of first round and it’s going to screw the bengals out of a solid OT at 38.

They have two 1st round tackles. They need a RG. They will have guys who can start there immediately at 38 - plenty to choose from.

[Tony Cloninger]

I saw a mock 7 round draft, which I like to see how it all breaks down. However they have the Bengals drafting a TE from Miami in the 3rd and a RB in the 5th.

If they go Chase in the 1st it better be OL in the 2nd. 3rd. 4th. Unless they are signing another FA after the draft or after the compensation issue is no longer a factor. Some teams don’t want to lose out on compensation picks and wait to sign more players.

[RedTeamGo!]

They have two 1st round tackles. They need a RG. They will have guys who can start there immediately at 38 - plenty to choose from.

Good point, they can def get a solid G in the 2nd or 3rd round. Maybe a Wyatt Davis. The more I think about this draft, though, I think there’s going to be a run on T’s in the first.

[Big Klu]

Carson Palmer got hurt behind a top 5 line. **** happens. You can't ever be certain of that. Sewell doesn't keep him safe either necessarily. No guarantees. Maybe a WR who gets open quicker protects Joe better. He hasn't had that here.

Palmer also got hurt with Chad Johnson, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, and Chris Henry as his top 3 WR's.

[oregonred]

Chase or Sewell and happy either way... Slater/Sewell is growing on me as a trade down to #7 or #8 in the right deal

The Pitts expert hype is reaching bubble levels. Will be interesting to see if Pitts goes #4 to ATL (or a trade) and which QB SF takes at #3. Both are going to set the tone for the rest of the top 10-12 and possible trade downs

I'd be thrilled by moving down to #7/#8 and getting a high 2nd rounder as long as one of Chase/Sewell/Pitts/Slater is guaranteed

[WrongVerb]

Saw mention that Burrow wants Sewell over Chase. No idea if that rumor is accurate, but if so, then I've got to imagine that's the pick.

[Bourgeois Zee]

I'd be thrilled by moving down to #7/#8 and getting a high 2nd rounder as long as one of Chase/Sewell/Pitts/Slater is guaranteed

If that's possible, it'd be a great move.

Taking on a massive salary to grab a pick might also be a good move.

[Betterread]

Chase and Smith are in high demand. Both Miami and Detroit want one at 6 & 7. If you rate Sewell higher, sounds like you could trade with Detroit at #7 and get a good pick and Sewell. If you pick Sewell at 5, it means an opportunity to add more talent(quantity) was lost.

[RedTeamGo!]

Saw mention that Burrow wants Sewell over Chase. No idea if that rumor is accurate, but if so, then I've got to imagine that's the pick.

I think you have that mixed up. All reports are Burrow wants his buddy Chase.

[membengal]

Saw mention that Burrow wants Sewell over Chase. No idea if that rumor is accurate, but if so, then I've got to imagine that's the pick.

I've literally not heard that anywhere.

[WrongVerb]

I think you have that mixed up. All reports are Burrow wants his buddy Chase.

Yeah, that's what I've mostly seen as well, which is why I wanted to bring credible alternative info to the board. (FTR, I think it'll be Chase)

[UKFlounder]

Mixed feelings - on one side, I’m glad the Sewell vs Chase debate will end (as far as whom they choose, though I guess it will pop up again during the season) and other topics can be discussed, but, draft time is pretty fun, even with only two expected candidates to discuss, and after the next few days it will be gone for a while

[membengal]

Y’all may want to click this link...

https://twitter.com/andrewhojnacki/status/1387830952228007943?s=21

[Dom Heffner]

The whole world knows it's Chase.

To me it's obvious- and makes sense when you think about the fact that OL is something they can take two swings at later.

WR not so much.

Boyd, Higgins, Chase. Yum.

[oregonred]

Chase and Smith are in high demand. Both Miami and Detroit want one at 6 & 7. If you rate Sewell higher, sounds like you could trade with Detroit at #7 and get a good pick and Sewell. If you pick Sewell at 5, it means an opportunity to add more talent(quantity) was lost.

Maybe, but would require a lot of what ifs ready to go depending on who goes at #3 and #4. if Lance/Fields are both still available at #5 I would have to think the phones are ringing off the hook in Cinci (assuming the Bengals have an unlimited minutes team plan), Miami and Detroit

Sewell/Slater and another top 2nd round pick would be pretty sweet

[Dom Heffner]

https://www.si.com/nfl/bengals/gm-report/penei-sewell-jamarr-chase-dave-lapham-prediction-for-bengals-fifth-pick

He normally seems like he knows the pick ahead of time, inside info.

Not this year- which makes me feel like the Bengals are worried somebody trades up. I dont think there is a chance they take anybody but Chase if he is there at 5.

[oregonred]

Not looking like Chamber of Commerce weather in beautiful Cleveland on the live predraft coverage.

50 and foggy. Yuck...

[Flyer Guy]

Will the 5th pick in the 2021 NFL draft be made by the Bengals or the Bungles? The Bengals founded by Paul Brown would select an OT.

[Reds Freak]

Will the 5th pick in the 2021 NFL draft be made by the Bengals or the Bungles? The Bengals founded by Paul Brown would select an OT.

In 1973, Paul Brown drafted Isaac Curtis in the first round at 15th overall. That worked out pretty well. Granted, I can't remember if the Bengals had OL holes to fill then.

[Bob Sheed]

In 1973, Paul Brown drafted Isaac Curtis in the first round at 15th overall. That worked out pretty well. Granted, I can't remember if the Bengals had OL holes to fill then.

They took C Bob Johnson with the 1st Bengals pick ever.

[oregonred]

The Bungles would take Devonta Smith/Warrick/Ross

I lean Chase only since the draft is deep at OL in top of round 2 and he is the perfect AFC North WR. No complaints at all if Sewell is the pick instead.

[Tony Cloninger]

In 1973, Paul Brown drafted Isaac Curtis in the first round at 15th overall. That worked out pretty well. Granted, I can't remember if the Bengals had OL holes to fill then.

They didn’t. They had Holland at RT. Stan Walters at LT. Rufus Mayes. Pat Matson at G. Tom DeLeone was back up C.
Before he became Browns starter after that. They only had Chip Myers at WR and Charlie Joiner. Curtis had Bob Hayes speed. They were 8-6 in 1972. Losing 2 games because Muhlmann missed 4 FG in a loss to Rams 15-12. They were not long 40-50 yarders either. Missed XP and FG in 1 point loss to Baltimore. They had a good young team ready with a Top 5 defense with Mike Reid. Bill Bergey. LeClair. Casanova. Parrish. Riley.

The OL holes remind of 1978-79 before they drafted Munoz. Who also had knee issues and it was not a sure bet he was that healthy.

[UKFlounder]

I wonder if Munoz would be drafted so high today and what reaction would be to his injury history. I know medical technology has advanced, but would that help or just cause more concern?




They didn’t. They had Holland at RT. Stan Walters at LT. Rufus Mayes. Pat Matson at G. Tom DeLeone was back up C.
Before he became Browns starter after that. They only had Chip Myers at WR and Charlie Joiner. Curtis had Bob Hayes speed. They were 8-6 in 1972. Losing 2 games because Muhlmann missed 4 FG in a loss to Rams 15-12. They were not long 40-50 yarders either. Missed XP and FG in 1 point loss to Baltimore. They had a good young team ready with a Top 5 defense with Mike Reid. Bill Bergey. LeClair. Casanova. Parrish. Riley.

The OL holes remind of 1978-79 before they drafted Munoz. Who also had knee issues and it was not a sure bet he was that healthy.