2014 NFL Draft grades: Cincinnati Bengals select Darqueze Dennard

Nov 2, 2013; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans cornerback Darqueze Dennard (31) raises his had before a play during the third quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Spartan Stadium. Spartans beat the Wolverines 29-6. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports /

With the 24th pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, the Cincinnati Bengals selected CB Darqueze Dennard out of Michigan State.

Once the Browns selected Johnny Manziel, it was clear that Dennard was probably on of the best players on the board. Coming out of what was arguably the best defense in the nation, Dennard plays corner with an attitude and has an aggressive style that will fit the Bengals well.

At 5-foot-11 and 199 pounds, Dennard isn’t the biggest corner, but he makes up for being slight in size with his strength and speed.

There are some injury concerns with Dennard, including a double-hernia surgery that was performed recently, but the Bengals needed help in the secondary, and Dennard should be able to step right in, even if only in nickel situations.

Once he gets some NFL seasoning, Dennard will be a shut-down corner who excels at press man coverage, and will be a huge asset for the Bengals.

OVERALL PICK GRADE: B+

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