Offensive tackle is often a Round 1 projection for the Cincinnati Bengals in mock drafts and otherwise given the need there.
But could the Bengals find an even better value in the second round?
While talking about the upcoming draft from a Cincinnati perspective, ESPN’s Matt Miller suggested the Bengals might be able to find a starter in Round 2 with a certain prospect:
What we’re hearing about the Bengals’ draft: The Bengals added left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. in free agency, but there is still talk they could address the offensive line in the first two days of the draft. Right tackle, depending on what happens with Jonah Williams’ trade request, could be an early area of focus. Darnell Wright (Tennessee) — the best right tackle in the class — likely will be off the board by the time Cincinnati is on the clock in Round 1, but Dawand Jones (Ohio State) could be a plug-and-play find in Round 2. The Bengals also have big needs in the secondary and at tight end. — Miller
It’s certainly tough to get a read on how this particular draft class might pan out. In theory, a tackle-needy league won’t let a guy who can possibly start on either side slide into the 60s.
On the other hand, that same league let Orlando Brown Jr. slip to market and join the Bengals, so who knows?
One thing is for sure — the Bengals need insurance at right tackle with La’el Collins rehabbing a serious December knee injury and Jonah Williams requesting a trade.
Adding a player like Jones in the second round would certainly mean the Bengals attack best player available in the opening round.
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