The wait is finally over. We’ll soon have an actual draft pick to talk about — as if we don’t already know who the first one will be.
To start the final buildup, here’s one last mock draft for the Cincinnati Bengals, with these picks coming from my personal final seven-round mock draft where I went through all 255 picks.
No. 1 – Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
Is there really any more explanation needed? This has seemingly been locked in since January. Thursday it finally becomes a formality.
No. 33 – A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa
The Bengals could certainly go offensive tackle here, but having Epenesa available at 33 to help with the pass-rush looks like good value. If Epenesa slips out of round one, he won’t be waiting long on day two.
No. 65 – Adam Trautman, TE, Dayton
The Bengals look to add big weapons as well for Burrow and with the tight end class not the deepest, like other positions, why not grab one of the top guys in Trautman? Trautman is one of the better pass-catchers in this group and would help open up the field even more for A.J. Green and Tyler Boyd.
No. 107 – Darnay Holmes, CB, UCLA
The Bengals reworked the cornerback position in free agency, but extra bodies can’t hurt, especially when Mackensie Alexander only signed a one-year contract. Holmes opened a lot of eyes at the Senior Bowl and the Scouting Combine and can develop into a very strong defensive back.
No. 147 – Mykal Walker, LB, Fresno State
Walker provides solid value in the fifth round at the linebacker position. Solid tackler and was first-team All-Mountain West both years he played for the Bulldogs after beginning his collegiate career in junior college. He’s a good tackler and can strongly help in the special-teams department.
No. 180 – Tremayne Anchrum, OG, Clemson
Played some tackle for Clemson but doesn’t have the frame to stay there. He’ll kick inside and give needed depth on the interior for the Bengals.
No. 215 – Dezmon Patmon, WR, Washington State
Big receiver at 6’4″, 225 pounds. But many feel he doesn’t play to that size. If he can put everything together, he can develop into a solid player. He did run a 4.48 40-yard dash, so that’s something to build on.
