An early look at the Bengals 2008 draft

[BengalszoneBilly]

An early look at the Bengals 2008 draft

By Chick Ludwig, Staff Writer

Friday, December 07, 2007

CINCINNATI — With the 4-8 Bengals nearing elimination from playoff contention for the 16th time in 17 years, it's time to look ahead to 2008.

The needs are everywhere except quarterback, where Carson Palmer is signed through 2014.

Every position on the 29th-ranked defense must be addressed. The offensive line needs depth. And wide receiver can't be ignored because T.J. Houshmandzadeh's contract expires after the 2008 season.

Here's an early look at the Bengals' 2008 draft:

• Round 1 - Defensive end: With Justin Smith expected to bolt in free agency, the club needs an impact pass rusher to complement Robert Geathers. Smith (2 sacks) hasn't lived up to his $8.6 million salary as the franchise player.

Big C's projection: Ohio State's Vernon Gholston or Virginia's Chris Long. Gholston has the ability to shed blocks, maul the QB and blow up running plays. Long is a hard-try, technically-sound warrior with great bloodlines. He's the son of Hall of Famer Howie Long.

The top free agents: Jared Allen, Chiefs; Terrell Suggs, Ravens; Mike Rucker, Panthers.

• Round 2 - Defensive tackle: LDT Domata Peko has been a pleasant surprise as a fourth-round pick in 2006. Now he needs a run-stuffing, pass-rushing wide body next to him. John Thornton has one-year remaining on his contract, but his price tag ($3.5 million) could make him a cap casualty.

Big C's projection: Texas' Frank Okam. The Longhorns are known for producing top-notch defensive tackles, and Okam (6-5, 320) is in the mold of

Shaun Rogers, Casey Hampton and Marcus Tubbs. Okam is a big, mobile, space eater who stuffs the run and pressures the passer.

The top free agents: Albert Haynesworth, Titans; Corey Williams, Packers.

• Round 3 - Offensive tackle: The Bengals locked up their bookends - LT Levi Jones and RT Willie Anderson - through 2012 and 2011. But both are fighting knee injuries and may not be worth their $3 million salaries in 2008. The team needs to re-sign unrestricted free agent Stacy Andrews.

Big C's projection: Pitt's Mike McGlynn is an Eric Steinbach clone. McGlynn is very durable and versatile, having played all positions along the offensive line and not missing a game in three seasons. He's a tenacious blocker who serves as the Panthers' long snapper.

The top free agents: Flozell Adams, Cowboys; Jordan Gross, Panthers; Max Starks, Steelers.

• Round 4 - Safety: FS Madieu Williams is a free agent who will likely test the open market, and SS Dexter Jackson is Mr. Inconsistent. Rookies Chinedum Ndukwe and Marvin White have potential, but the club needs a playmaker to bolster the secondary.

Big C's projection: UTEP's Quintin Demps is a ball hawk who makes plays in centerfield. He's quick, athletic and shows excellent burst in and out of his cuts. Demps is also an explosive kick returner who will give the special teams a boost.

The top free agents: Mike Doss, Vikings; Ken Hamlin, Cowboys.

• Round 5 - Linebacker: The Bengals made a big mistake by not signing Landon Johnson to a long-term deal. He'll test free agency along with Caleb Miller, Lemar Marshall and Dhani Jones. The club can't count on David Pollack (injury) or Odell Thurman (suspension) returning.

Big C's projection: The Bengals can go right across the bridge and snag a tackling-machine in Kentucky's Wesley Woodyard. He's a speedy outside 'backer with the range and cover skills to play every down. Woodyard (6-1, 215) needs to add some bulk so he can hold up at the point of attack.

The top free agents: Lance Briggs, Bears; Karlos Dansby, Cardinals; Demorrio Williams, Falcons.

• Round 6 - Tight end. If the position hasn't been forgotten, it's at least been ignored. The team hasn't drafted a tight end since Matt Schobel in 2002. Hey, it's about time. Reggie Kelly is one of the NFL's finest blockers. He needs a pass-catching complement down the middle of the field.

Big C's projection: Louisville's TE Gary Barnidge is a strong receiver in a pass-happy offense. A good route-runner with soft hands, he has average speed but is seemingly always open. He's Brian Brohm?s go-to guy in the clutch.

The top free agents: L.J. Smith, Eagles; Eric Johnson, Saints; Marcus Pollard, Seahawks.

• Round 7 - Tailback. Rudi Johnson's 2008 salary ($3.2 million) could make him a cap casualty. With Chris Perry and Kenny Irons coming off injuries, Kenny Watson needs a mate. There's plenty of depth...and question marks.

Big C's projection: Ohio U's Kalvin McRae set single-season school records of 1,434 yards, 19 rushing TDs, nine 100-yard games and 294 carries. He doesn't have great speed (4.5) but is a quick, tough, instinctive runner, and a reliable receiver out of the backfield.

The top free agents: Michael Turner, Chargers; Jamal Lewis, Browns; Justin Fargas, Raiders.

[ArmyBengal]

God, I just love the draft !!! I look forward to all the conversations and draft day here at Bengalszone !!!

In regards to Chick, I like the fact he has D-Line for the #1 and #2 picks !!!

WHODEY !!!

[BengalszoneBilly]

In regards to Chick, I like the fact he has D-Line for the #1 and #2 picks !!!

It doesn't make me one bit mad that he's predicting an offensive tackle at #3 either! That would be a dream draft for me! Give me some big bad linemen all the way through, and I'd be happy!

[ArmyBengal]

Couldn't have said it better myself Billy !!!

WHODEY !!!

[redsbengalsbucks]

D all day on day 1 (OL is the only exception)

D most of the day on day 2

[jjakq27]

No offense to anyone but this is so premature.

We wait all offseason for the season to get here and once it's here we are already worried about the offseason. I know we all want to fix this thing but in a couple of weeks it'll all be over and then we can start looking ahead. Sorry but that's just me fellas.

[ArmyBengal]

C'mon JJ, at 4-8 and no chance at the playoffs, it at least gives us something to talk about. I'm still interested in how the remainder of the season shakes out and such, but I'm very intrigued by this upcoming draft. Just me...

WHODEY !!!

[Spor_tees]

First off the main priority for the Bengals is making sure Albert Haynesworth is in stripes next year. I don't care if you have to change the name of the team to the Cincinnati Haynesworth's, you get him in town! He changes everything on defense giving them an interior line presence that they haven't had in a long time. Then if you can you go after Terrel Suggs. I'm all for letting Justin walk if you can replace him with Suggs. Suggs is a better pass rusher and that is what the Bengals need. As far as the draft, you get those guys, you can go after a LB in the draft like Larinitus or Connor from Penn State. You add those guys and you turn the Bengals defense into a top 10 unit.

[jjakq27]

C'mon JJ, at 4-8 and no chance at the playoffs, it at least gives us something to talk about. I'm still interested in how the remainder of the season shakes out and such, but I'm very intrigued by this upcoming draft. Just me...

WHODEY !!!

I now where you are coming from. It's fun to dream a little but to me I would rather wait. After all the draft is over four months away and we won't know our slot for three more weeks.

Enjoy!

[WhoDey93285]

First off the main priority for the Bengals is making sure Albert Haynesworth is in stripes next year. I don't care if you have to change the name of the team to the Cincinnati Haynesworth's, you get him in town! He changes everything on defense giving them an interior line presence that they haven't had in a long time. Then if you can you go after Terrel Suggs. I'm all for letting Justin walk if you can replace him with Suggs. Suggs is a better pass rusher and that is what the Bengals need. As far as the draft, you get those guys, you can go after a LB in the draft like Larinitus or Connor from Penn State. You add those guys and you turn the Bengals defense into a top 10 unit.

...so when did Mike Brown die?

Not trying to be a smartass, but the chances are this scenario happening are slim.

I'd love it if it did, though.

[Kazkal]

1st rnd & 2nd round I'd love to get a DE & DT our line has been ignored since we took smith.

3rd:I'd prefer a guard myself and move whitworth out to RT and then grab best available tackle/center/guard with our 2nd 3rd.

4th:Meh I'd rather keep Madieu then draft a 4th round safety.

5th:LB for special teamer depth not replace to landon,We need landon resigned and I rather see him get Tagged then let him go at this time.

6th:TE That's fine

7th:More fine with taking chance and hoping you find a gem because IMO our RB's next year should be Watson,Irons & Dede inless you know mcfadden falls in our laps

[Kazkal]

No offense to anyone but this is so premature.

We wait all offseason for the season to get here and once it's here we are already worried about the offseason. I know we all want to fix this thing but in a couple of weeks it'll all be over and then we can start looking ahead. Sorry but that's just me fellas.

We can't really fix anything in the next few games,We need find out if Pollack & thurman are done we need find out if brooks or perry or irons will be able to stay healthy.

Only thing I look to be gain next few weeks is experience for our young guys and see if players like guycheck can become worthy nfl starters.

PS,Dede,Faenene(sp?),DUke,White are some players I'd like to see more of.

[cincy9275]

i have no clue why chick listed any free agents on his article. unless by some kind of miracle none of the F/A he listed will be a bengal. if golston does come out i think you will see the bengals play themselves right out of the position he will be picked. we have the 9er's browns dolphins left. i think cincy will beat all 3 teams finish at 8-8 and have to settle for a lesser defensive player. and have another year of brat and bresh to underachieve. as a long time fan i don't think the bengals future looks bright at all unless marvin clears the house, if he don't look for us to be the mediocre team we have been for the past 5 years for a long time.

[ArmyBengal]

Well if the season ended today, we be picking right around 12 and we would still have a good shot at a top DT and maybe even DE.

Free agency does have an impact, but that would be to much like getting your hopes up !!!

WHODEY !!!

[agreen_112]

i have no clue why chick listed any free agents on his article. unless by some kind of miracle none of the F/A he listed will be a bengal. if golston does come out i think you will see the bengals play themselves right out of the position he will be picked. we have the 9er's browns dolphins left. i think cincy will beat all 3 teams finish at 8-8 and have to settle for a lesser defensive player. and have another year of brat and bresh to underachieve. as a long time fan i don't think the bengals future looks bright at all unless marvin clears the house, if he don't look for us to be the mediocre team we have been for the past 5 years for a long time.

That would be great but I think we address the safety position in FA. Doss or Hamlin would be nicer than Suggs... Our #1 pick will be a LB'r.

[NJ29]

I think the addition of the top free agents at each position is the most interesting part of the article. The thought of picking up Terrell Suggs to team with Geathers or a playmaking backer like Lance Briggs opens your eyes a little. It won't happen, but it's fun to think about.

[bengalspride1219]

First off the main priority for the Bengals is making sure Albert Haynesworth is in stripes next year. I don't care if you have to change the name of the team to the Cincinnati Haynesworth's, you get him in town! He changes everything on defense giving them an interior line presence that they haven't had in a long time. Then if you can you go after Terrel Suggs. I'm all for letting Justin walk if you can replace him with Suggs. Suggs is a better pass rusher and that is what the Bengals need. As far as the draft, you get those guys, you can go after a LB in the draft like Larinitus or Connor from Penn State. You add those guys and you turn the Bengals defense into a top 10 unit.

the titans will do everything in their power to keep haynesworth after seeing how bad they were without him and plus they have the most cap room. no way we get him.

i would love to have him though

[kingwilly]

Well if the season ended today, we be picking right around 12 and we would still have a good shot at a top DT and maybe even DE.

Free agency does have an impact, but that would be to much like getting your hopes up !!!

WHODEY !!!

FA will be a push, if they are active at all. We may sign a minor player or two but landing a Briggs or Suggs is pretty unlikely.

[Chad Johnson]

wow! I like tis article by Chick Ludwig and normally i used to hate his articles.

That 1 and 2 would be amazing.

[ShulaSteakhouse]

i have no clue why chick listed any free agents on his article. unless by some kind of miracle none of the F/A he listed will be a bengal. if golston does come out i think you will see the bengals play themselves right out of the position he will be picked. we have the 9er's browns dolphins left. i think cincy will beat all 3 teams finish at 8-8 and have to settle for a lesser defensive player. and have another year of brat and bresh to underachieve. as a long time fan i don't think the bengals future looks bright at all unless marvin clears the house, if he don't look for us to be the mediocre team we have been for the past 5 years for a long time.

That would be great but I think we address the safety position in FA. Doss or Hamlin would be nicer than Suggs... Our #1 pick will be a LB'r.

The Bengals' have drafted 3 (technically 4) safeties in the last 3 years, and it's looking hopeful that Nduke may be able to take Dexter's spot when he's done. I don't see how it makes Safety a #1 priority at this time. A big part of the better play on D as of late, regardless of the reasons, is the play of the DB's. Yet they're still not going to stop the Brady's, Manning's, Romo's or Favre's of the world with no pass rush. They've also drafted two #1 CB's in a row and have Deltha for another year.

If you know how the Bengals' strictly slot $, they'll spend their dough on a LB, DE or DT with a #1 pick or FA, or both (if they lose Smith of course). I'd think maybe an interior o-lineman or TE in the 2nd (instead of what they should've done and re-sign Steinbach and settle with Willie this year).

But who the hell knows it's December. Nothing better to talk about other than DeDe Dorsey and this I guess.

[ArmyBengal]

For all you that think we would draft another running back on day one, you should check out the new Rivals.com from Yahoo. They put up a new mock draft and have us taking the RB Slaton out of West Virginia with the #9 pick of all places. Seriously, the McFadden pick would piss me off enough, but SLATON ?? With the #9 pick ?? I would really take a big time out from the Bengals with that pick.

WHODEY !!!

[BengalszoneBilly]

For all you that think we would draft another running back on day one, you should check out the new Rivals.com from Yahoo. They put up a new mock draft and have us taking the RB Slaton out of West Virginia with the #9 pick of all places. Seriously, the McFadden pick would piss me off enough, but SLATON ?? With the #9 pick ?? I would really take a big time out from the Bengals with that pick.

WHODEY !!!

S**t. It's probably true. If I'm not mistaken they did the same thing in '04 with Two Carry Perry, and I laughed. I'm not laughing now.

BTW...this is a Green Bay oriented YouTube clip, but it basically sums up my actions and emotions after the Bengals wasted their #1 pick that year:

[COB]

Too funny. He shanked that blue ball. Truly one of the funniest things I've seen off YouTube.

[BengalszoneBilly]

Too funny. He shanked that blue ball. Truly one of the funniest things I've seen off YouTube.

Well I'm buying myself a blue ball to have ready to shank the s**t out of when the Cincinnati Bengals waste another 1st round draft pick on a running back who wouldn't help the team a fraction as much as a top lineman. Offense or defense. I don't care which. Just draft one that will help to either open holes that my mom could run through pushing a shopping cart, or one that can put pressure on the opposing QB.

[kingwilly]

bwaaaaahhahahahaha....that is hilarious....almost how awful I acted when we took Joseph.

Slaton???? never. he's not even an r1 player.