The NFL Draft will be the next significant event of the Cincinnati Bengals’ 2024 offseason, even if there are still a few weeks to go. The signings of defensive end Sheldon Rankins and offensive lineman Trent Brown have left the roster clear of any major openings that will need to be filled by emergency personnel in April. As a result, it appears uncertain who this club will choose because they will be making their decision in the midst of the first round.
Cincinnati can now search for any superstars who fall into the middle of the first round depending on the needs of other teams, as there is a suitable starter at every position. That is, after all, exceedingly typical: Jalen Carter, a defensive tackle last season, was regarded by many as the most skilled athlete, yet he was selected ninth overall by the Philadelphia Eagles because of other positional needs. At the very least, it ought to be the front office’s objective in Queen City going into the draft.
The positions that Cincinnati will not choose in the first round will be the focus of our following stage. With great quarterback Joe Burrow, it’s a given that this team won’t be picking a quarterback in the first round of the draft—unless, perhaps, they want to take a backup. After that, considering the pool of players available, it is unlikely that this team will choose a pass rusher in the first round.
