The Cincinnati Bengals failed to make the playoffs once again in 2016, and for their efforts, earned the ninth overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft.
For Cincinnati Bengals fans, the 2016 NFL season was wildly disappointing, as they missed out on the playoffs for the first time in six seasons. After finishing the 2015 season at 12-4, and then losing in the Wild Card round once again, fans had to believe last season would be the year they turned around their fortunes in the postseason. That did not happen, as an injury to star wide receiver A.J. Green really derailed their season.
Heading into the offseason, the Bengals knew they had to make some changes on the roster. They released former star linebackr Rey Maualuga, who was a leader on and off the field for the team. Outside of that move, Cincinnati was pretty dormant this offseason, likely because they feel they have enough talent on the roster to compete this season. The AFC North is definitely going to be up for grabs in 2017, and the Bengals should be right back in the mix for a playoff spot.
Due to their 6-9-1 record in 2016, the Bengals earned the ninth overall selection in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft. With that pick, the Bengals selected John Ross from the University of Washington. Ross was an absolute beast for the Huskies last season, helping lead his team to the College Football Playoff. He can do it all on the field, and will team well with A.J. Green on the outside.
This is a pretty surprising pick, as many believed the Bengals would bolster their defense with this pick. However, Andy Dalton needs weapons, and with question marks at running back, adding depth to the wideout position makes sense. Ross is going to be a solid player at the next level, but he does come in with some injury issues, and may have to miss some time during training camp.
Next: Cincinnati Bengals: List of 2017 NFL Draft picks
The Bengals have yet to win a playoff game with Marvin Lewis as their head coach, and his time with the organization may be coming to a close. With the ninth overall pick, the Bengals added an impact player to their defense, but they still have a long way to go. There is enough talent on this team to compete in the AFC North this season, but is Lewis the right man for the job anymore?
Grade: C