NFL power rankings: Vikings, Eagles top the board

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - JANUARY 14: Stefon Diggs
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - JANUARY 14: Stefon Diggs /
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CINCINNATI, OH – NOVEMBER 26, 2017: Wide receiver A.J. Green
CINCINNATI, OH – NOVEMBER 26, 2017: Wide receiver A.J. Green /

. . . Cincinnati Bengals. 24. team. 56

2018 Key Additions: As usual, the franchise was pretty quiet when it came to adding veterans. Of course, the Cincinnati Bengals are certainly hoping defensive tackle Chris Baker and middle linebacker Preston Brown can fix a defense that allowed the third-most rushing yards in the league this past season. And the trade that brought left tackle Cordy Glenn from Buffalo this offseason should help immeasurably. The team entered this year’s draft with 11 selections and came out with 11 prospects, well-balanced between offense (5) and defense (6). In fact, all of the club’s defensive picks came in their first eight choices. First-round center Billy Price (Ohio State) figures to be an immediate starter.

Offseason Review: In recent years, the Bengals have taken their share of hits when it came to free-agent departures. And when it comes to a franchise that relies on its draft choices and doesn’t spend a lot of money bringing in veteran Talent, not free not all setting those departures can lead to bigger issues. The club got back to what it does best and that’s utilizing the draft this offseason. But this is a team that has missed the playoffs the last two years after five straight postseason appearances. The club needs to build on last season’s 7-6 finish of a season ago.