The hints the Cincinnati Bengals will lean heavily into defense in the 2020 NFL draft continue to go public.
Besides meeting with notables like Appalachian State’s Akeem Davis-Gaither and California’s Evan Weaver, the Bengals also made a point to meet with Baylor edge James Lynch.
The news comes courtesy of Draft Wire’s Justin Melo, who noted changes to Lynch’s schedule due to COVID-19, but that he’s had a prior meet with the Bengals.
Lynch showed up at the combine and measured at 6’4″ and 289 pounds before showing well in drills. NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein grades him as a backup who could become a starter and noted:
“Active, powerful defensive lineman with some moldable upside still to be had. Teams who view him as an even front three-technique may not view his gaudy, high-impact production as translatable to the pros, but his snap quickness and power to displace at the point of attack are important traits for interior success.”
Chalk up Lynch as an interesting mid-round option to keep in mind. It would seem like linebacker is a bigger priority but that’s pending the results of free agency.
The Bengals would probably like to add another body to the rotation up front, especially if they have flashed some positional versatility. Lynch fits.
