We have already reached the first big offseason milestone, the NFL Scouting Combine.
The so-called ‘underwear Olympics’ kicked off on Thursday 27 February at Indianapolis’ Lucas Oil Stadium.
The annual showcase has given coaches, executives and fans the chance to see most of next year’s top prospects up close.
We are only halfway through, so be prepared to be overwhelmed by a tsunami of more times, speeds and distances as the young hopefuls sprint, weightlift, jump and generally tear about this weekend.
Guarding against complacency
So where will the Cincinnati Bengals spend their first draft pick? The smart money says in the trenches.
With the future of both Alex Cappa and Cordell Volson in question, they could opt for a guard at pick #17.
Tyler Booker from Alabama has impressed scouts with his size and technique but he is the only name to watch. In fact, he could be the only interior lineman selected on day one of the NFL Draft.
That is why I feel that Cincy are more likely to start by looking for a difference maker on the defensive side of the ball.
Swinging for defence
Speaking on Tuesday, Director of Personnel Duke Tobin confirmed that he is treating the defensive line as a priority.
“D-line is always on my mind,” he told the media. “I wish we had a little more depth in that area.”
That is no surprise. Sheldon Rankins has just been cut and Sam Hubbard could be next. Both B.J. Hill and Joseph Ossai are free agents.
If they draft any replacements, I suspect the Bengals will be looking at those around the 20–30 mark on Dane Brugler’s latest Top 100.
Defensive tackle Walter Nolen from Ole Miss has a lot of buzz for the interior pressure he generates.
Michigan’s Kenneth Grant shows prowess as both a run-stuffer and pass rusher, and Derrick Harmon from Oregon is in the mix too.
Edging their bets
That said, there could be good defensive tackle options on day two. That means taking an edge rusher as the first pick is not out of the question.
Texas A&M’s 280lb defensive end Nic Scourton could be a reach on day one. So, at the Combine, close attention will have been paid to James Pearce Jr. from Tennessee and the explosive Mykel Williams from Georgia.
We will have to wait till late April to know who the Bengals eventually select.
If you want to check out the O-line candidates, tune in on Sunday. For those wanting to see the future quarterbacks, wide receivers and running backs in action, the wait ends today!
