So far, it’s clear the 2022 NFL draft focus for the Cincinnati Bengals needs to be on the offensive line and defensive secondary.
To that end, a new mock draft from Draft Wire’s Luke Easterling has the Bengals rolling with Florida cornerback Kaiir Elam at No. 22 overall in the first round:
“Offensive line should still be a strong consideration here, but the Bengals have a huge need at corner, and shouldn’t pass up a talent like Elam if he happens to fall this far.”
Two linemen come off the board right before the Bengals pick in this scenario, so it makes sense the team would focus on another premium need.
And Elam could be quite the long-term get for the Bengals. He’s a 6’2″ matchup corner who over three seasons with the Gators has five interceptions and 20 passes defensed with huge pro upside.
With Trae Waynes largely unavailable after signing his big contract in free agency two offseasons ago, the team might opt out of the final year of that deal next offseason, especially if a prospect like Elam is the goal in Round 1.
