The Cincinnati Bengals did the obvious with Joe Burrow. Now it’s all about upgrading around him.
The 2020 NFL draft continues Friday, where the Bengals will again hold the top pick. Unfortunately, some top names at positions like linebacker didn’t fall.
Fortunately, other first-round talents did.
Taking a value and need slant, here’s a mock for Rounds 2 and 3.
Round 2 (33): Josh Jones, OT, Houston
Most onlookers would probably agree Josh Jones doesn’t fall to the second round most years. But the 2020 class was oddly strong at tackle, hence six coming off the board in Round 1.
That leaves Jones to the Bengals — and he’s probably the lone reason they shouldn’t trade down.
Jones has left tackle potential but the value with him in Cincinnati is he can probably carve out a long-term role as a starter anywhere, including guard. He’s pro-ready at 6’5″ and 319 pounds.
Lance Zierlein put it best: “Early tape would suggest that Jones is a raw, developmental project in need of substantial technique work, but tape study later in the season suggests a level of improvement that creates additional intrigue for the long, athletic left tackle prospect.”
Lucking into a Round 1-caliber tackle like Jones while still trying to right the longstanding wrongs along the offensive line is as good as it gets.
Round 3 (65): Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC
Does Tee Higgins fall this far?
Probably not. Pittman feels like a better chance to fall at this stage of the draft’s cycle.
But the word “fall” shouldn’t be looked at in a negative manner. Pittman was a productive USC wideout who checks in at 6’4″ and 223 pounds with 4.52 speed.
Even better, he puts what he’s got to work well as a reliable threat. From a writeup on The Draft Network: “Featuring a massive catch radius, Pittman features a long, stocky frame with outstanding hands. He’s physical in everything he does and defensive backs will be challenged with his blend of size, strength and ball skills.”
Grabbing a speedy guy as John Ross insurance might make more sense. But Pittman is general long-term insurance across the board, with Tyler Boyd really the only known thing past 2020.
