2 Dion Dawkins G/OT Temple

3 DeMarcus Walker DE/DT FSU

4a Codrea Tankersley CB Clemson

4b James Connor RB Pitt

5a Pat Elflien C OSU

5b Wayne Gallam RB Clemson

6a KD Cannon WR Baylor

6b Javancy Jones OLB Jackson St.

7a Jake Elliot K Mempjis

7b Victor Salako OT OK St.

r2-33- Zack Baun LB   Wisconsin

r3-65- Matt Peart    OT    UConn

r4-107 - Robert Hunt    OG    Louisiana

r5-180 - Tanner Muse    OLB        Clemson

r6-207 - Jonathan Garvin    DE        Miami

r7-215 - Dane Jackson    CB    6-0    Pittsburgh

This is just spit balling   I have not followed college combine or draft rumors like in previous years..

33       Patrick Queen LB

65       Lucas Niang OL

104     Ezra Cleveland OL

147     James Proche  WR

180    Evan Weaver   LB

215    Josiah Deguara  TE

Weaver may not be there that late, if not either A J Green CB or Lamar Jackson CB at 180

Defense needs to be shored up with FA LB before the draft.

Round 1 -  Devin White, ILB, LSU
The defense picks up Jordan Hicks in free agency (Eagles are 18 mil OVER cap) and him and White dominate the middle of our new 3-4 base package.
White is a f*cking beast.  Period.  There's nothing more needing to be said.
Back 4 looks like:  Hubbard, Hicks, White, Lawson
Front 3 looks like:  Dunlap, Billings, Atkins

Round 2 - Irv Smith Jr., TE, Alabama
Don't kill me yet.  No reason to bring back Eifert and damn near every other TE is a free agent.  I think Smith has 1st round talent and we need a TE weapon.
God knows when we have that weapon, Dalton can find them, when looking at what Eifert did in his last healthy season.

Round 3 - Trey Pipkins, LT, Sioux Falls
Sure he's small school, but he will provide not only backup for the o-line, but at the LT spot and can develop as the season goes along.
If Glenn continues with health issues, the Bengals can move on from him with $0 dead cap space hit.

Round 4 - Ta'von Coney, OLB, Notre Dame
We will need back up linebackers with the switch to a 3-4 and Coney would represent good value in the 4th round having been productive at Notre Dame.
Both Preston Brown and Vinny Rey are free agents as well, so doubling up at linebacker is almost a given in my thought process.

Round 5 - Hamp Cheevers, CB, Boston College
Undersized CB for sure, but a ball hawk who can play the slot.  Depending on what happens with Dennard as a free agent, adding a CB is a must.
We could certainly argue that adding a CB sooner would be smart and I wouldn't disagree.  It would depend on how the board fell, as always.

Round 5 (TRADE) - Anthony Nelson, DE, Iowa
The Bengals trade 2 of their 3 sixth round comp picks and get some depth with a very productive Nelson out of Iowa.
Nelson had 13.5 tackles for loss and another 9.5 sacks on the season.  He is also a true 3-4 DE from his time in college.

Round 6 - Kyle Shurmur, QB, Vanderbilt
Driskel still has another year on his contract and while he might not be starter material, he will probably be the backup in 2019.
That being said, adding another arm should be considered and this is good value for Shurmur who threw for 63%, 3130 yards, 24 TD's with 6 INT's.

Round 6 (COMP) - Malcolm Pridgeon, OG, Ohio State
Solid in both the run game and pass protection, I think this would be another good value pick and certainly add some competition at a position of need.

Round 7 - William Sweet, OT, North Carolina
The guy is probably a RT moving forward, but could back up multiple positions and I wouldn't complain about that from a 7th rounder.

OK, that's all I've got at this point.  It's sure to change moving forward, but I wanted to have a little fun and see how things were going to shake out.
That TE pick in the 2nd is sure to irritate some I'm sure.  Oh well...

42 - Layne. CB  Mich state. Push to start outside. 

72 - Wilson. LB Alabama. Starter value 

110 - Cajuste. OT WV new anchor

149 - Moreau. TE LSU  need depth

183 - Rypien. QB Boise st  need arm talent 

198 - Homer. RB Miami  fill the depth pool

210 - Hyatt. OT Clemson depth from quality group  

211 - Connely. LB Wisconsin   Talent and depth  

213 - Denis.  FS Boston College depth

223 - Jones. OG NC st  depth 

Rd 2 OT David Edwards Wisc.

Rd. 3 OT Max Sharping NIU

Rd. 4 TE Kaden Smith Standford

It is early but I would love this to happen

1) ORT pass blocking priority

2) OC pass blocking priority

3a) Coverage/speed LB

3b) Pass rushing DE

4) Power RB

5a) CB

5b) OC

5c) K

7a) QB

7b) LB with ST skills

7c) Long snapper prefer TE or LB type

or, if we can trade a 5 plus a 7 for a 4

1) ORT pass blocking priority

2) OC pass blocking priority

3a) Coverage/speed LB

3b) Pass rushing DE

4a) Power RB

4b) CB

5a) OC

5b) K

7a) QB

7b) Long snapper, prefer one who can legitimately play LB

Rd. 2 (46): Billy Price, C, Ohio State:  We passed on Elflein last year and I believe that miss was the reason for us missing the playoffs in 2018.  Price is currently projected late first early second, I hope teams go crazy at QB which will push talent like Price out of the first.

Rd. 3 (77): Chukwuma Okorafor, RT, Western Michigan:  Can't believe that this guys still has a 4th Rd. Grade....this will change and we will be lucky to nab him in the 3rd.  Excellent RT Prospect.

Rd. 4 (TBD): Mike Gesicki, TE, Penn State.  All Around good Tight End from a program that knows how to coach up TEs traditionally.  Watched several of Gesicki's games and always came away impressed by his overall game.

Rd. 5 (TBD): Trey Flowers, S, Oklahoma State. Big, Rangy Safety with pretty good athleticism.

Rd. 6 (TBD): Tegray Scales, ILB, Indiana.  Great Instincts, doesn't get the credit he deserves because of where he went to school.  Hoping he continues to go unnoticed.

Rd. 7a (TBD):  Michael Badgley, K, Miami (FLA):  Need a young Kicker since we let Elliot walk.

Rd. 7b (TBD): Ryan Winslow, P, Pittsburgh:  Need a young Punter as well, Huber is getting up there in age and we could use some competition at this position.  In general 7th round is a good round to take the Best Available Specialists because those positions are in high demand as UDFAs and if you want the pick of the litter take them in Rd. 7.  If they don't pass muster little harm done.

R2-44 Brian O'Neil OT Pittsburgh 

R3-76  Mike Gesicki TE Penn St.

R4-108 Josh Allen OLB Kentucky 

R5-140 Armani Watts S Texas A&M

R6-172 Beau Benzschawel OG Wisconsin 

R7-204 Rahsaan Evans  MLB Alabama 

No idea on comp picks or other picks they might have. 

Let's call it a list for Santa Claus. I'm just going to go round by round in a general way, with an extra pick or two for comps for Sanu (r4) and Jones (r3). Maybe its a bit of wishful thinking but as things clarify, I'll tighten it up.

Bengals picks only.

r1 - Jamal Adams FS   6-0, 210  LSU

r2 - Mason Cole  C 6-5, 305  Michigan

r3 - Devonte Fields OLB  6-3, 245  Louisville

    r3 - comp - Daeshon Hall DE 6-5, 260 Texas A&M

r4 - Jalen Reeves-Maybin  LB 6-0, 230 Louisville

    r4 - comp - Travin Dural WR  6-2, 195  LSU

r5 - Kareem Hunt RB 5-11, 225  Toledo

r6 - Gavin Andrews - OG - 6-4, 330 Oregon St.

r7 - Brendan Langley - CB - 6-0, 190  Lamar

Round 1: Jaylon Smith, OLB, Notre Dame - This is assuming that Treadwell, Doctson, and Coleman are gone and history shows that WRs almost always go higher than the draft board suggests.  Minnesota is definitely going to pick one of those guys at 23 and I bet two of these WRs go in the teens.  Yes I know about the nerve damage but if his April 3rd medical checks out with no long term degenerative issues we should draft him here.  Just like Ogbuehi last year we can get a top ten talent and put him on the shelf for a year, we then replace the current Karlos Dansby with the next Karlos Dansby.

Round 2: Sterling Shepard, WR, Oklahoma - One of these guys will fall to us at 55 Shepard, Thomas, Braxton Miller, and Leonte Caroo and this means we don't have to reach for a WR at 24 if Treadwell, Doctson, and Coleman are gone (the only three WRs I have with a first round grade).  Shepard is lightning quick, his dad played in the NFL, and is smart.  While he does not have the size we typically look for he is too good to pass up here (I think he could be the next Antonio Brown they have similar comps).

Round 3: Max Tuerk, C, USC - Flexible, dynamic center has size and long arms.  Can play every position on the offensive line (and did for the Trojans).  Strong enough to man the center position but retain his flexibility (which IMHO is Bodine's problem).  Is coming off an ACL injury and that needs to be looked at and has a funny snap delivery that also much be checked out but is a steal here in the 3rd (I am projecting Kelly and Martin gone by the time we select in the 3rd).

Round 4: Matt Ioannidis, DT, Temple - Workhorse, powerful and a football junkie.  He was all over the field last year for the Owls. Strong as a bull (32 reps at the combine) and his tape jump off the screen.  Long term replacement for Peko and brings the intensity and leadership you are looking for.

Round 5: Keyarris Garrett, WR, Tulsa - This is a gamble because by all accounts he should go much higher (I have seen him as high as second round and as low as 5th).  TD Maker with good measurable.  Long, strong able to fight for the ball (6'3" 220 lbs) but still able to get deep (4.53 40) and has good leaping ability (36").  Comes from a gimmick offense that puts up inflated numbers but 20 TDs in a season is still 20 TDs in a season and this would be a gold mine for the Bengals if they were to grab him this late (I wouldn't be mad if they grabbed him the 3rd).

Round 6: Deiondre Hall, CB, Northern Iowa - This would be another steal.  Played at a 1-AA school but did everything for Northern Iowa.  Has the height (6'2") Arms (longest arms of any CB prospect in the draft) and leaping ability (37") to contend with anyone.  Ran a slow 40 (4.68) but looks like he plays much faster than that on film.  Slow 40 and coming from a small school pushes him down the draft but he has all the measurables and the skill to be a really good CB/S hybrid in the pros.

Round 7: Marshall Morgan, K, Georgia - Round 7 is a good place to pick up a kicker to compete with Nugent.  Morgan has a strong leg and lets face we love those Georgia Bulldogs.

r2 - 55 - Kendall Fuller - CB Virginia Tech

r3 - 87 - Nick Martin  - C/G Notre Dame

it may be dreaming to think Coleman will fall but perhaps they can move up, they do have AJ McCarron, Hunt,  as trade bait. moving up to 15, doing deal with Rams, giving them AJ and a '17 r1 or r2 pick might do it?  I'm no expert on the draft trade points system...

Good afternoon Bengals fans! Here's my inside the war room special for you guys.

Enjoy!

Em

Anyways, I ran this simulation a bunch of times trying to come up with a realistic draft that I was happy with. So this is what I got. My draft, based on CBS Sports' big board is as follows:

21: R1P21

OT ERECK FLOWERS

MIAMI (FLA.)

Of the first round tackles, he is the one I want but there seem to be several good ones and at least one of them seems likely to be available at 21.

53: R2P21

DT CARL DAVIS

IOWA

As I noted above, he's not my first choice here, but there's no doubt he's a monster and should fit into Peko's spot well. Another option here would be a CB or WR, although I'm not in love with any of the WR options that were falling here.

85: R3P21

WR PHILLIP DORSETT

MIAMI (FLA.)

Here's our x-factor, speedy, Baby-Hawk-like WR. Love this guy.

99: R3P35

CB SENQUEZ GOLSON

OLE MISS

Guy's a player and looks like a steal at the end of the 3rd.

120: R4P21

OT ROB HAVENSTEIN

WISCONSIN

I think we need 2 OL in this draft. The second guy can be more developmental and Havenstein may be more pro-ready than we need. But that's not a bad thing. Wisconsin OT? "unquestioned leader of the Wisconsin offense"? Yes please.

135: R4P36

OLB MIKE HULL

PENN STATE

So here's where I took my OLB. Hull is a little under-sized, but seems like a good prospect and he has the Penn State pedigree, so seems like a solid choice here.

157: R5P21

TE NICK O'LEARY

FLORIDA STATE

I love this guy's game. Would be thrilled if the Bengals took him. Would be shocked if he fell this far.

197: R6P21

S JORDAN RICHARDS

STANFORD

Looks like maybe a smarter Taylor Mays?

238: R7P21

RB JOHN CROCKETT

NORTH DAKOTA STATE

Thinking about a late-round special teams prospect. This guy's nickname is "Taz". Sounds promising to me!

I'm not going all into trying to explain, simply looking at needs and who may or may not be there when we pick.

Oh yeah, we got comp picks in the 3rd and 4th.

1. DT Malcolm Brown, Texas- He's probably the BPA and fits.

2. OLB Hauli Kikaha, Washington- Can get to the QB and hits a need. Mauldin from Louisville would be fine as well.

3. WR Phillip Dorsett- Speed, speed, and more speed. Undersized, but did I mention speed ??

3. DE Za'Darius Smith, Kentucky- Goodbye Geathers.

4. TE Tyler Kroft, Rutgers- Strikes me much like Eifert, but a solid blocker.

4. FS Durell Eskridge, Syracuse- Nelson won't be around forever and has the size they like at the position.

5. FB Jalston Fowler, Alabama- If Hewitt is strictly a TE in 2015, give me the best FB in the draft.

6. OT Sean Hickey, Syracuse- LT prospect and depth, which is always needed.

7. OG Jarvis Harrison, Texas A&M- More o-line depth and his coaches think very highly of him.

I don't really care much about arguing because free agency could change everything drastically. Who knows ??

Maybe they go after a #2 WR in free agency. How about Boling is gone and they go after Iupati from the 49er's ??

Too many options to consider at this point, but I wanted to waste some time today.

So, here goes:

r1 - 21 - Arik Armstead - Oregon - DE - He announced he was entering the draft on the 13th. He is a true 5 technique with the rare size, speed and strength that could immediately do for the Bengals D-line what Hunt and Clarke have not: anchor opposite Dunlap and deliver plays against the run and pass. He could end up gone by 21, depending on how his numbers shape up from the combine. As of right now, he is my desired pick, to address a serious deficiency on the defense.

Profile: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1996151/arik-armstead

r1 - Back-up pick - Sammie Coates - WR - Auburn - A player who may be still a bit raw, with limited routes, but there is no denying his abilities. Would be ideal opposite Green as a co-2 with Jones. Would deliver massive mismatch chances for Dalton, which is what he badly needs. Torn on this, as I see DE and WR as the two biggest issues on this team.

Profile: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1824794/sammie-coates

r2 - 42 - Lorenzo Mauldin - OLB - Louisville - Going down the path of an OLB who can rush the passer, another things this team lacked. I think Mauldin is the ideal 3rd down rush LB (Which this team does not have). A rotation with Burfict, FNR, Lamur and Mauldin would be very scary.

Profile: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1851278/lorenzo-mauldin

r2 - Back-up pick - Carl Davis - DT - Iowa - Moving inside, Davis is a reliable and productive interior player who could immediately contribute, considering the limited production of the Still and Thompson picks. Some fresh blood is needed with Atkins still working to regain his form, they need another big person to be inside and take on the double teams and crash the A gaps. Peko being on the other side of his career mountain makes this pick look smarter.

Profile: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1759544/carl-davis

r3 - 63 - Josue Matias - OG - Florida State - Maybe not an obvious pick but with Boling a FA, and injury concern for Pollack, this is a great player for r3. Part of an obviously successful program, has the size and versatility that the team desires. Would not complain one bit if Matias is taken by the Bengals.

Profile: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1860757/josue-matias

r3 - Back-up pick - Maxx Williams - TE - Minnesota - Depending on Gresham coming back, I'd dare to take Williams anyways. A lack of effective TE depth hurt Dalton substantially down the stretch, and clearly in the playoff game. Williams projects here (or higher) and has very clear abilities that would work in Hue's offense where the TE is prominent, and often 2 TEs are on the field. No profile yet but here is a link that discuses him: http://www.twincities.com/sports/ci_27267709/gophers-football-maxx-williams-rated-highly-by-nfl

Ok, let me know you thoughts....

1 (24) Xavier Su'a Filo, OG, UCLA: Bengals get stronger and tougher up the middle, I love this guys game and he slids right in as the LG bolstering the middle of this offensive line immediately.

2 (55) Phillip Gaines, CB Rice: The next best CB after Dennard, Gilbert, Fuller and Verrett on my board (Roby getting caught driving under the influence less than a month beofre the draft drops him down alot in my book). I like Gaines' size and his competitive streak when the ball is in the air.

3 (88) Terrance West, RB, Towson St.: This is my favorite RB in the draft, his burst is undeniable. An excellent replacement for BJGE.

4 (123) Brian Stork, C, Florida State: I would be just as fine with Weston Richburg, Travis Swanson, or Marcus Martin but getting a Center in the 4th would solidify the line for years to come.

5 (164) Brock Vereen, FS, Minnesota: Brother of Shane Vereen. I like Brock's versatility (played both Corner and Safety in college) his work ethic and his intelligence, could be a steal in the fifth round.

6 (199) Trey Millard, FB, Oklahoma: We have a need at Fullback particularly with the increased emphasis on the running game.

6 (212) Khri Thornton, DT, Southern Miss: Best player on a bad team and could blossom in the pros as a situational 4/3 DT or a 3/4 DE.

7 (239) Pat O'Donnell, P, Miami (FLA): Tall Rangy Punter with a great leg and the power to get the ball deep.

7 (252) Jordan Navjar, TE, Baylor: Great developmental prospect as a TE. Has the body and physical ability to be special but is raw and unproven.

SO there it is. Let me know what you guys think.

That being said, I didn't want it to go by and not at least make an attempt. I repeat that I feel they could go in MANY different directions.

Oh, I also felt there may be a need at OLB, so if someone would prefer a 5th round OLB instead of a center, cool...

1st Round: Kyle Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech

I just think they are going CB one way or another here and if both Gilbert and Dennard are gone and I had to pick, I would pick Fuller here.

Verrett is too small and I could really see him falling to be quite honest. Ghee is gone, Newman is up for FA next season, Jones is getting up there, Hall is coming back from his 2nd major injury, and Kirkpatrick hasn't assumed a starter's role to this point. If for some reason they don't go CB in the first, the OG out of UCLA Sua'Filo would be a nice 2nd option for me.

2nd Round: David Yankey, OG, Stanford

A versatile O-lineman that has gotten time at LT as well as LG. I am guessing that Pollack earns the starting center spot and that leaves a hole at LG with Boling coming off a season ending injury and not thought to be ready. Not only that, but Boling is a free agent next year as well. I simply think this is a pick that could come in and immediately start, which would be huge for the offense and Dalton. If they went OG in the first, my choice here would be a CB.

3rd Round: Billy Turner, OT, North Dakota State

Has anyone watched this kid play ?? Good Lord, he's someone to watch for and could go higher than the 3rd. A great pick to have groom behind Whit without the thought of needing him to start right away. Since we lost both AC and Fragel, I think they really have to target a solid backup within the first few rounds.

4th Round: Jaylen Watkins, CB, Florida

Like I mentioned before, there are many questions about the CB spot and they sure aren't getting any younger. Watkins has some size and speed to him and has also played some safety as well. Could certainly be a good teams guy while waiting for his opportunity.

5th Round: Bryan Stork, OC, Florida State

That's right TJ, you get an o-lineman at each position in this draft. Beers are on me !!!

With Cook being shown the door, I think this pick is certainly more feasible. It's another nice pick for depth that has the potential to turn into a starting center. Has shown versatility at Florida State as well, but center is his natural spot. I guess this really depends on how they view Robinson and what they do with Pollack. Obviously, they may feel there's no need to draft a center, but I like it.

6th Round: Dri Archer, RB/WR, Kent State

Think the speed replacement for Hawkins who is built along the same lines and has crazy speed and quickness. A poor man's Tavon Austin ??

Either way around, there are many who question what we actually have after our top 3 WR's and I wouldn't mind adding his speed in the loss of Hawkins.

6th Round: Tom Savage, QB, Pittsburgh

Here's the developmental QB I think they need to go get. Savage is big, has some movement to him and has a big arm as well. When I watch him play, I think of Ben Roethlisberger in need of refinement. He can get a little sloppy at times, but like I said, that's where the term "developmental" comes into play. No one would be asking him to start and he could learn from both Dalton and Campbell. Savage might actually go a little higher than this, but I would love this comp pick in the 6th round.

7th Round: Jake Murphy, TE, Utah

I've heard nothing about Smith coming back at this point and Gresham is a free agent after this season. Murphy is a big kid with ability as a blocker and pass catcher. If not him, I could see another local TE prospect in UC's Blake Annen. Either way around, I see a TE in this draft and could see it as early as the 5th round (since i'm guessing) if things fell differently.

7th Round: Aaron Lynch, DE, South Florida

With a lot of reports lately of this kid being an absolute mess off the field, I can see him continuing to fall. This could be our next Burfict if someone was there to put his head on straight and get the lightbulb to come on. Some might say we need a DE early, but I really don't see it that way. Geathers will be back healthy, Gilberry put up 7.5 sacks last season, and Hunt has a season under his belt. That and none of them will be free agents in the coming season either.

r1-24 - Justin Gilbert - CB - Oklahoma State University

Really like this guy, has all the tools and is versatile (CB/FS/KR). Some might think he does not have "long" speed, however it is more his short-area quickness that I might worry about. His long stride makes me confident in his long speed. He is not really a "man" corner, in the mold of Revis (or on our team Pacman). He is more like Richard Sherman (size speed and skill-wise). I see him as the best possible insurance in case Hall simply does not have it any more, which is certainly possible given his two achilles injuries, or if Newman proves vulnerable (age).

He can play some safety (kind of like Crocker) and can also return kicks (buh-bye Tate).

Link: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1785829/justin-gilbert

r2 - 55 - Jarvis Landry - WR - LSU

In the mold of a Steve Smith, he brings speed and strength to the WR group. I think bringing in another talented young guy can't hurt the WR spot. I feel he'd be an upgrade to the Whalen, Tate and Sanzenbackups of the world. Plus, we all recall the hole left when Baby Hawk was down.

"He proved to arguably be the nation’s top wide receiver on third down, ranking No. 1 nationally with 453 yards, six touchdowns, 15 catches of 15-plus yards and six catches of 25-plus yards on third down this season. - LSU football" ...not a bad thing to have on board.

Link: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1824833/jarvis-landry

r3 - 88 - Christian Jones - OLB - Florida State

OLB/Cover backer who can run with TE's and drop into coverage. Was again a weak spot for Bengals, with Mays needing to become a hybrid due to Lamur injury. Has height and speed, something that can't be said for Maualuga. The LB depth cold be a strong point with Lamur, Joiner and Porter coming back from injury, and with Taze, Rey, Vinny and Harrison in the fold, also Dimanche also played well on ST, so he's in the mix. On the other hand, those injuries point to need for real depth and Jones would be that or more.

"Tremendous athlete with has fluid footwork who flawlessly flips his hips to blanket tight ends or receivers down the field in coverage. Tall and long, which he uses well in coverage. Plays with excellent range and speed to chase down the action, taking proper angles in pursuit. Flashes the take-on strength to blow past blockers when he uses proper technique. - CBS Draft profile"

Link: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1737228/christian-jones

So anyway, he is gone for purposes of the following mock.

First up, I am going to list three possible picks at each pick number through round 4, as I would be happy with any of the three at that spot, and it is virtually impossible to figure out who will slide to our pick However, as each pick fills a need, that need should not be addressed again until round 5 or later.

Second, although the team clearly needs to bolster the offense more than the defense, I just see the needs we have (RB and OL) not quite falling right in the bottom third of the first round, and in turn there is a ton of talent on defense here. So the first round pick at least will probably go to defense

Third, I am firmly in the camp that says Jones or Sanu will emerge as a WR2, so I will not be drafting one early

Finally, in many mocks, our 1st round pick addresses the Flesh Zeppelin's absence. The two most common picks in these cases are either DJ Fluker or Menelik Watson. I don't like either player as a FZ replacement. Fluker is all power and no movement, and he will be a liability in pass protection. He really should be a guard. Watson is an athletic freak, yessir, no problems there, but he is 4 years older than the typical senior recruit, and he has only played the position for a year. I'd consider Watson with a later round pick, maybe 4-5, but some team will draft him much earlier on potential. Not us, I hope.

so on with the show......

Round 1

A Arthur Jones LB Kansas State http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1619684

I love this guy as demonstrated in Mock 1. One of only 12 players at the combine to receive a grade above 90. I think there is a good chance Chicago takes him just ahead of us, but they could go OL instead.

B Jonathan Cooper OG North Carolina http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1695617

I love this guy too, and I have seen him in the top 10 in some drafts and in the lower 20's in others. I think he gets devalued as a Guard and slides. Extremely powerful with long arms, 4 year starter. I think he takes over immediately for Boling who was solid but unspectacular.

C Kenny Vaccaro SS Texas http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1664330

Projected to go as early as 12th in some mocks I have seen, but could fall due to perceived lack of foot speed and devaluing of the safety position. I have not been high on him but have come around due an article in Football Outsiders (http://www.footballoutsiders.com/futures/2012/futures-texas-fs-kenny-vacarro) that I think you should all read that shows he has successfully covered both Keenan Allen and Tavon Austin. The fact that Zimmer brought him in for a personal look-see also speaks volumes to me. I believe he has the versatility to play free or strong, or cover a slot receiver, running back, or TE; and this only improves his value more

Round 2A

A RB Eddie Lacy http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1664330

All the tape I have watched shows me a guy who is big, reasonably fast, fairly elusive, and very hard for the first tackler to bring down. He looks natural as a receiver as well. He also has about half the treadwear on him (350-ish carries in college career) as most of the other top-tier RBs in this draft class, who averaged around 600 carries apiece. Along then same lines, when you look at his stats, keep in mind he was playing only about half time. This is a bellcow RB, and I believe he will be available with our "Carson" pick in round 2. I am not worried about his injury status.

from http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/shutdown-50-alabama-rb-eddie-lacy-154751676--nfl.html : Perfect build for a power back -- outstanding musculature with a big lower body and consistent leg drive. Impressive "foot frequency," especially in short spaces -- keeps his feet tapping and moving while waiting for lanes and gaps. Goes from stop to start in a hurry and moves through the hole with speed and authority. Very quick laterally to move from gap to gap, and keeps his eyes downfield to exploit openings as they happen. Will occasionally explode outside from between the guards with his lateral quickness. Looks to bounce quickly when things aren't open inside. Excellent vision; will slash away from defenders to holes some backs wouldn't see. Cut-and-go style makes him an ideal zone runner. Very powerful player who will blow through bounce tackles and rip past back-seven defenders. Will bull and spin out of trouble for additional gains. Consistently falls and vaults forward at the tackle to gain extra yardage. As aggressive as he is, shows patience at the line; he won't generally outrun his blocks. Strong blocker who will square up at the point of attack and sustain protections. Effective weapon on quick screens and swing passes. Has a decent juke move to evade in the open field. Outstanding sense of balance allows him to regain his footing when avoiding tackles, and he runs through trash very well

B Alec Ogletree MLB Georgia http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1737114/alec-ogletree

Yeah, I hear ya. A very talented Georgia linebacker with drug and alcohol problems, been there done that already. Something tells me this guy isn't quite the headcase Odell was, and if he didn't have these warts, he'd be gone by pick 20 at the latest. Oh, and I want a MLB because I want to keep 55 at weakside, where he has been pretty damned effective.

B Kevin Minter ILB LSU http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1664390/kevin-minter

I like the production and non-stop motor on this guy. As sure a tackler as there is in this draft. He did not test particularly well, but I think he is one of those guys who is simply a better football player than an athlete. I do however suspect he will be a 2 down MLB rather than a 3 down MLB. Taking him over Ogletree at this point as I have decided Ogletree is too huge a risk on severe character issues, despite outstanding raw physical ability

C Matt Elam SS Florida http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1737092

I figured in the last mock he'd last til 3 due to his size.....well, I've reconsidered after additional research, and I honestly think we'd have to be very, very lucky for him to slip this far, but if we failed to get Vaccaro in r1, and he was still here, he'd have to be the pick. I really like the speed and attitude this player brings.

Round 2B

A Barrett Jones OC Alabama http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1632207/barrett-jones

I freakin *love* this guy, and he only drops this far due to a lis franc injury that he was tough enough to play through at the National Championship game. I don't care if we have to PUP or shelve him for 2013, just get him in Stripes

B David Amerson CB NC State http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1737246/david-amerson

A tall cornerback with legit 4.3 speed who has THIRTEEN interceptions in 2011. Yeah, he wasn't as effective in 2012, so he gets picked lower. This is the guy who we need to cover Torrey Smith. Yeah, we have plenty of corners, but also a lot of age at the position even considering Kirkpatrick.

C Khaseem Greene LB Rutgers http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1724998/khaseem-greene

D Giovanni Bernard RB Wisconsin http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1737248/giovani-bernard

He'd go higher if not for a history of injury. Good speed and hands

Round 3

A Terron Armstead OT Arkansas Pine Bluff http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1767688/terron-armstead

Athletic freak who chose this small school because the coach there was the only one who would allow him to participate in track events as well as be on the football team. I think he falls this far due to being raw and playing against inferior competition. We draft him now and groom him to take over eventually for Whitworth, who remains a good player but is fading.

B Darius Slay CB Mississippi State http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1665311/darius-slay

6 foot and 4.3 speed - another attempt get us a guy who can cover Torrey Smith

C Christine Michael RB Texas A&M http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1664173/christine-michael

Terrible name, great rb. Very good size/speed ratio, and enormously strong (27 reps) Injury history and attitude concerns are flags.

D Shamarko Thomas S Syracuse http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1682114

Experienced at both corner and SS, with 4.3 speed. He is short at 5'9" but sturdily built, good instincts, top tackler at Syracuse in 2012. Stronger than most linebackers - 28 reps. Extremely motivated to succeed - head of his family since the death of both his parents in recent years

Round 4

A Brennan Williams ORT North Carolina http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1664351/brennan-williams

Here's my Flesh Zeppelin replacement. 1st round talent with an injured shoulder currently. Can heal while Collins plays for now.

B Zaviar Gooden OLB Missouri http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1679504/zaviar-gooden

Fastest linebacker in the draft. Replacement for Migraine Boy and/or Skuta. Probably more Skuta, since he actually got on the field

C Josh Evans FS Florida http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1708343/josh-evans

Coverage safety with a chance to start, played all 4 years as Florida. According to this article on Florida's pro day (http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Pro-Day-Review-March-16th.html) Evans ran a 4.48 40 and tested out better than Elam

D Le'Veon Bell RB Michigan State http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1762561/leveon-bell

This is a big powerful runner, decent but not great speed, with good blocking and pass catching talents. Leading rusher in the Big Ten, for what its worth

Round 5

A Marcus Lattimore RB South Carolina http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1737120/marcus-lattimore

This is a luxury pick. I doubt anyone picked at this point or below can help us in 2013, but this guy could be PUP'ed or IR'ed for the whole year in 2013 and should come back fully ready to go in 2014, and could at that point not only start, but potentially star.

B Chris Faulk OT LSU http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1664212/chris-faulk

Very light feet and long arms make this guy a prototypical OT, who has played both right and left while at LSU against top notch competition since his freshman year. This is my final attempt at replacing the Flesh Zeppelin

C Steadman Bailey WR West Virginia http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1664860/stedman-bailey

Not as fast or as heralded as his teammate Tavon Austin, but more productive with a much better YPC. Potentially competes for the WR2 sport.

Rounds 6 and 7

In rounds 6 and 7, I would expect them to try to pick up athletic specimens who have the chance to contribute immediately on special teams but could be groomed for a need position in time

Probably need (in no particular order)

1) a "power" DE, similar to Jumpy Jr, who isn't getting any younger or cheaper. I hear they've brought in a kid from Princeton for a look-see who appears to fit that mold. I'd prefer to see Still getting these "power de" reps, but the team seems to have other plans

2) they'll need at least 2 running backs, so if they've only taken one to this point, pick another

3) I can't believe this Quinn guy is the best third TE out there. Seriously. So pick up a two-way TE in these two rounds.

4) Finally, our kicker could use some competition, particularly given how fragile he has been, and in any case kicker is one of those spots that there are usually really good players still available in late rounds. Would like to see http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1620544/caleb-sturgis chosen in round 6 to meet this need.

Good morning Bengals fans! Here's my final mock draft for April

Enjoy!

Em

Another trade! Cincy trades away Denver’s #28 pick to Buffalo for their 2nd (41), 3rd (71) and 6th (177). Despite picking up Kevin Kolb, Buffalo makes a splash and jumps back into the first round to select Ryan Nassib.

In this scenario the Bengals would pick as follows:

Round 2: 37, 41, 53

Round 3: 71, 86, 90

Round 4: 111

Round 5: 151

Round 6: 177, 197, 204

Round 7: 240, 251

With the 37th pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, the Cincinnati Bengals select….

2(a)- Jonathan Cyprien - SS - Florida International

I believe that with the rush on QB’s late in the first round due to the new CBA (fifth round rookie contract option) will leave this safety prospect on the board. Small school prospect with prototypical size (6’10” 207lbs) with the ability to cover and play strong run support.

2(B)/>- Alec Ogletree - LB – Georgia

Ogletree has all the talent in the world to contribute right away to an already strong defense. The only reason he is still available at this point is because of the three arrests over the last three years. Marvin and Zimmer have a knack for correcting “behavioral issues”. Look for Ogletree to start at WILL, with Burfict being moved over to MIKE.

2©- Kyle Long - T – Oregon

With the ongoing negotiations with Andre Smith, it would be smart for the Bengals to look for a plan B in the draft. Long comes from a very strong football pedigree, and has the ability to play a strong right tackle, and would be the perfect player to groom as Whit’s replacement when he decides to call it quits.

3(a)- Khaseem Greene - LB – Rutgers

I believe the FO will double up on the LB position early in this draft if either Jamie Collins or Greene is available here. With Collins coming off the board, likely in the late 2nd, Greene is the pick. Adding Greene to a LB core with Burfict and Ogletree would give the Bengals one of the best young groups in the league… if not the best.

3(B)/>- Barrett Jones – G/C/T – Alabama

All purpose O-Lineman that has seen his draft stock drop from late first round/early second to the 3-4th round range. Can play any position on the line and is probably the smartest lineman in the draft. Definitely an upgrade over Boling and/or Cook.

3©- Marcus Lattimore – RB- South Carolina

Now I know everyone probably thinks I am crazy, projecting the Bengals to wait this long on a RB… however, I believe that there is a good chance Felix Jones lands here in Cincy and will provide a stop gap at RB until Lattimore is 100%. Most people feel we should draft a COP back early in the draft. I think that it is smarter in the long term to grab a work horse that can do it all. And in the third round, we get arguably the most gifted back in the draft as a steal.

4- Larry Warford – G – Kentucky

The interior of the offensive line was suspect to say the least. Most of the QB pressures late in the season came right up the middle or over left guard. I think part of this was due to lack of cohesion on the line when Cook came back, but I also think that it had more to do with the fact that we are starting back-up caliber players at LG and C. After the Senior Bowl, Warford was projected in the second round, but after a shaky combine his stock has dropped. This is a steal. Plain and simple. Warford handled Floyd, Richardson and Jenkins (all first round talents) during his time at UK. Imagine this…

LT- Whit

LG- Warford

C- Jones

RG- Zeitler

RT- Smith/Long

5- Josh Boyce – WR – TCU

Prototypical #2 receiver… and to add to it, he has history with Dalton. At 6’0” 203lbs he reminds me of a more athletic Brandon Lloyd (not to mention younger). I waited until the 5th for a WR because I am a firm believer that Mo Sanu is the answer at #2, and I think the coaches feel the same way. This pick adds depth and familiarity to the WR corps for Dalton.

6(a)- Kerwynn Williams - RB/KR - Utah State

Goodbye Brandon Tate…

6(B)/>- Reid Fragel – OT - Ohio State

Much needed depth on the O-line… we can get rid of Roland. Fragel played some TE in college, so is very athletic.

6©- Quanterus Smith – DE – Western Kentucky

Just watch the WKU-Alabama game and you will understand why this kid would be a steal.

7(a)- Sanders Commings – DB – Georgia

7(B)/>- Dustin Hopkins – K – Florida State

1) MLB Arthur Brown

I know many of you want to move Burfict inside, but I want to keep him at weakside because, well, if it ain't broke don't fix it. I dont want Rey in the middle, because he sucked there. He was however a bit better at strongside in previous year, so maybe a return there will revive his career. All this leads me to needing an ILB, and I want a kid who is speedy, a sure tackler, and a quick decision maker there. His profile at cbssports.com (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1619684) suggests he would be a top 15 talent if he were a couple of inches taller. And he is faster, sheds blocks better, is more athletic than, and covers better than similarly sized Khaseem Greene. So -- screw the height, gimme the talent -- gimme Arthur Brown, the top MLB of this draft. All that said, I do think we could trade down a bit and still get this guy while picking up an extra 3 or 4.

from http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1513956-why-arthur-brown-is-the-best-defender-in-this-years-class : "One of the most athletic defensive players in this class" and "Brown was named team captain both seasons he attended Kansas State. His college career began at the University of Miami. Brown has always been considered quiet and unassuming, but worked to develop his vocal leadership and communication skills going into his senior year."

from http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-mock-draft/2013/3/14/4097350/2013-nfl-draft-stock-report-arthur-brown-datone-jones : "has the versatility to play multiple positions in multiple schemes"

from http://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2013/3/15/4099192/nfl-draft-prospects-steelers-linebackers-kansas-state : "In zone coverage Arthur Brown excels because of his excellent short area quickness. His quickness was displayed against West Virginia when he was asked to cover Tavon Austin on underneath routes." and "He also shows the ability to slip blocks as well"

from http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/21862387/pro-days-ksus-brown-harper-quiet-critics-with-impressive-workout "the 6-0, 241-pound linebacker answered any concerns about his straight-line speed, timing between 4.56-4.66 seconds in the 40-yard dash, according to multiple sources in Manhattan"

from http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-mock-draft/2013/3/11/4088974/2013-nfl-mock-draft-free-agency : "There is no more athletic linebacker in the draft than Brown."

from http://boards.buffalobills.com/showthread.php?456801-Walterfootball-2013-NFL-Draft-Stock-Pro-Days-Part-II : "He has been impressive in the team interviews with his passion and commitment to football. The senior had 100 tackles, seven tackles for a loss, two interceptions, four passes broken up and a sack in 2012. He was excellent for Kansas State and was a team leader. "

from http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Draft-Rumblings-Risers-Fallers-Around-The-NFL.html : "No doubt shorter than ideal at 6’0, his ability to read and react to the play so quickly, elite speed and explosive closing burst to give him sideline range has teams confident he will be a three down linebacker in the NFL. Not only an outstanding player on the field, but regarded as a team leader with all the intangibles, Brown is a favorite amongst scouts and coaches. Although Brown may not make it into the first round of the Draft, we hear it is 50/50, he is viewed by many teams as the most complete inside linebacker in the Draft who has no character issues"

2a) RB Eddie Lacy

All the tape I have watched shows me a guy who is big, reasonably fast, fairly elusive, and very hard or the first tackler to bring down. He looks natural as a receiver as well. He also has about half the treadwear on him (350-ish carries in college career) as most of the other top-tier RBs in this draft class, who averaged around 600 carries apiece. Along then same lines, when you look at his stats, keep in mind he was playing only about half time. This is a bellcow RB, and I believe he will be available with our "Carson" pick in round 2. I am not worried about his injury status.

2b) OC Barret Jones

Oh yes I did. Oh hell yes. Double dipped on the NCAA Champion Crimson Tide. Army has sung the praises of this player, and I echo his sentiments. The only reason this highly talented and highly versatile player lasts this long is because he is hurt right now. Not badly, but it's kept him from doing his combine/pro day/dog-n-pony show stuff. But get this - he PLAYED the championship game with this painful lisfranc injury. This speaks volumes to me about his toughness and dedication. I think Cook and Robinson are capable, but me, Mr "GIMME A LINEMAN' wants DOMINANT lineman, and I think he is ready to go - and takes over the starting OC job - well before the fall season starts.

3) S Matt Elam

I am as I said not a big fan of the safeties in this draft, but I think this guy will last into round 3 due to his less than ideal size. That said, i value speed and play-making ability over size at this spot, and his talents are good value for r3, when some think he could go near the end of round 1 or early round 2. Extra credit: Bengals defensive backs coach Mark Carrier ran his pro day drills

3+) OLB Zaviar Gooden

with this pick, I am assuming we traded down in round 1 and still got Brown, and packaged that r4 pick we added plus a 6 in exchange for a late r3 pick. Yeah, its a fantasy, but all mocks are to one degree or another. so -- this is the fastest LB in the draft. With his 4.47 speed and superb athletic ability I see him on special teams right off the bat replacing the departed Dan 'Scootin' Skuta as he is groomed to back up the two OLB spots.

4) OLT Terron Armstead

The most athletic OLT available, though admittedly a project, to be groomed to replace Whit (who is deteriorating faster than I'd exected) in the next couple of years. Played against weak competition most of his career, yes, but was impressive at the senior bowl, proving he can hang with the best already. He could be used as tackle eligible at some point as well due to his speed and size.

5) RB Marcus Lattimore

I figure this is about as low as I dare to go and still get this guy. I expect him to go through 2013 on injured reserve, and then be ready to compete for the starting RB job in 2014, and hopefully it can be run by committee to keep individual stats (and ergo salaries) down. I think is a good enough gamble to "waste" a 5th round pick on.

6a) WR Steadman Bailey

A very under-rated receiver, but highly productive.....moreso than his much lauded teammate Tavon Austin. Great hands, toughness, and athleticism. His precise route running will probably give him a chance to step in and contribute in year 1. Will compete for that much-talked about 2nd wide receiver spot. I think he lasts this long despite having 2nd round talent because he is neither a speed guy nor a size guy, and most teams are looking for one or the other or both at this point. In any case, as many have pointed out, we can't finish a draft without picking a wide receiver or three, so here's that mandatory pick.

if we have picks left, one of them needs to be a cover corner with world class speed, and maybe a developmental DE (athletic ability and durability over experience at this point in the draft).

I am also fine with the Honey Badger as one of these late picks, or as a UDCFA. Adam Jones was of similar mentality early in his career, and the more mature current version of Jones can get this kids head straight.

r2 - 37 - Barrett Jones - C/OG - Alabama - Will be be there in r2? If so, they can't pass him up. Foot injury could mean he is still there. Super versatile, very smart, and very good in a movement scheme. Can take on big boys in SEC. Make sure the foot is doing well, and we might have our next starting C or LG.

r2 - 53 - Denard Robinson - WR/KR/QB - Michigan - Luxiry Pick. Undeniable skills and ability. Could be ultimate playmaker/game changer. Would raise the level of ability at WR and RB to another level. Also can cover QB in a pinch. Someone will take him early and exploit his ability, might as well be the Bengals.

r3 - 84 - Kevin Reddick - LB - NC State - super versatile LB, strong blitzer, kind of a Von Miller type player.

r4 - TBD - Le'Veon Bell - RB - Michigan St. - big strong back who can get yards, reliable and tough. Perfect for AFCN football. With him and RObinson, means Scott and Peerman are expendable. Rminds me of a bigger, stronger Corey Dillon.

r5 - TBD - Travis Kelce - TE - Cincinnati - this might not fly but Kelce was one of my guys this last year. I'd like him to get a shot to be in stripes. We need TE depth, and I've never felt Gresham lived up to his draft status.

r6 - TBD - Michael Buchanan - OLB/DE - Illinois - good support player, looking for a place to play. 5th in nation among DE's in total productivity, and against Big 10 opposition. High upside guy, just what you want in r6.