The Cincinnati Bengals have a vision for second-round cornerback DJ Turner.
For outsiders, it was a little tough to see the plan. Turner was obviously a great pick at a premium position at 60th overall, but his build — 5’11” and 173 pounds — made it tough to project if he would play inside or out.
According to Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic, Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo told reporters after the pick was announced that they think Turner arrives as a boundary cornerback with the ability to move inside if necessary.
Anarumo also detailed another part of the plan given Turner’s frame as he tackles the pro game next:
Anarumo on DJ Turner being a smaller corner: "He’s got a little bit of ways to go from a weight standpoint. You can put some weight on him. You can’t make them 4.2."
— Paul Dehner Jr. (@pauldehnerjr) April 29, 2023
So on paper, Turner might just be the long-term starter on the boundary opposite Cam Taylor-Britt. And if not, perhaps he moves inside to the slot in time.
Either way, the Bengals have a plan of attack in mind after securing a high-upside player at a premium position in the second round.
