The Cincinnati Bengals are 0-6 and right in the race for the first pick in the 2020 NFL draft.
To break from the monotony of a week leading up to a game against the struggling Jacksonville Jaguars, let’s take a look at a sampling of top prospects the Bengals could eventually target in the top five to 10 picks.
Chase Young, EDGE, Ohio State
No surprise here right? Young is the most disruptive player in college football and the next great Bucekeys pass rusher. Before the season it might have been easy to pass over any pass rusher for the Bengals but it has been an unexpected weakness for the team. With Carlos Dunlap struggling and Carl Lawson inconsistent, adding another edge rusher who seems like a can’t-miss prospect and possible Heisman Trophy contender is a no-brainer.
Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
Bengals fans probably don’t love the idea of taking another first-round corner. But…Okudah might just be that good. He’s an outside man corner with four picks and massive upside. The Bengals have a ton of money invested in Dre Kirkpatrick and William Jackson has struggled so far.
Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
Quarterback has to be part of the conversation and it starts with Tagovailoa, owner of 2,011 yards and 27 touchdowns against just one interception already. In a stacked offense? Obviously. Perfect for today’s NFL and capable of taking over games? Easily.
Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
A rocketship has been strapped to Burrow’s draft stock. The Buckeyes transfer is completing nearly 80 percent of his passes with 2,100-plus yards and 25 touchdowns against three interceptions. He’s talented enough the Bengals can’t make an excuse for passing on him if he a.) makes it to their pick and b.) they win a few games and aren’t picking first.
Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
Herbert is the other member of the current quarterback trifecta and he’s looking impressive, completing nearly 70 percent of his passes with 1,602 yards and 17 touchdowns against one interception. He’s playing in a fun offense and has a wicked arm, which is enough of a change from the current quarterback in Cincinnati that it would be impossible to not be excited.
