The Cincinnati Bengals face a uncertain future and the 2017 NFL Draft will likely clarify it. Here’s an updated draft order for them.
After a disappointing 2016 season, the Cincinnati Bengals aren’t off to a good start in the 2017 offseason. They’ve already lost their top two offensive linemen. Andrew Whitworth signed with the Los Angeles Rams while Kevin Zeitler signed with the Cleveland Browns. Moreover, the future of cornerback Adam “Pacman” Jones is uncertain thanks to an offseason arrest. Head coach Marvin Lewis will be back at the helm, but is this his last chance?
While the Bengals have needs, they have 11 picks (tied with the Browns for the most) to fix them. Unlike Cleveland, Cincinnati’s picks aren’t mostly in the first three rounds. They have a pick in each of the first three rounds and two picks in each of the remaining four rounds. This gives them a bit of ammunition to move up a few spots if they desire. Here’s an updated draft order for the Cincinnati Bengals
Round 1 – 9th overall
Round 2 – 41st overall
Round 3 – 73rd overall
Round 4 – 116th overall
Round 4 – 138th overall
Round 5 – 154th overall
Round 5 – 176th overall
Round 6 – 193rd overall
Round 6 – 217th overall
Round 7 – 227th overall
Round 7 – 251st overall
Must Read: 2017 Bengals Mock Draft
The Bengals have to do a lot in this draft. They must find at least one offensive lineman who can start and potentially two. The Bengals should also address their aging secondary and their lack of skilled position players on offense. Cincinnati has a lot of work to do to catch up to the Steelers and make it out of the first round of the playoffs.