Cincinnati Bengals Day 2 targets: Best available for NFL draft Rounds 2 and 3
The Cincinnati Bengals entered this year’s NFL draft with more positions of need than they had heading into each of the last two drafts, and they’ll look for immediate contributors during Day 2 of the NFL draft.
After the Bengals selected offensive tackle Amarius Mims in the first round, they could target defensive tackle, wide receiver, cornerback and offensive guard on Day 2. This year, the NFL draft is especially deep at wide receiver and offensive guard.
What to know:Bengals' first pick Amarius Mims
Draft grade:Analyzing Bengals' pick of Amarius Mims
With three Day 2 picks, the Bengals have the flexibility to move up and target a highly ranked player on their board, like they did in 2022 when they traded up for cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt.
NFL draft best available players Round 2-3
Roman Wilson, wide receiver, Michigan
He has the ability to fill Tyler Boyd's old role as the Bengals' go-to slot receiver. With his ability to make tough catches over the middle, his quickness and his feel, Wilson is the prototype for the big style of slot receiver that the Bengals look for.
Ja'lynn Polk, wide receiver, Washington
Polk is one of the most versatile receivers in this class and has been a reliable target throughout his college career. He has the profile of an immediate contributor.
Cooper Beebe, offensive guard, Kansas State
He’s a big, physical interior offensive lineman who plays with the mentality that the Bengals value on the offensive line. He was a team captain in college.
Kris Jenkins, defensive tackle, Michigan
He posted very impressive results at the NFL combine, showing the traits that make up a starting defensive tackle. While he only had 2.5 sacks last year, Jenkins was a consistent presence on the defensive line of the best team in the NFL.
Ruke Orhorhoro, defensive tackle, Clemson
Orhorhoro stands out with his long arms, athleticism and upside as a pass rusher. He’s one of the most explosive defensive linemen in this year’s NFL Draft.
Mike Sainristil, cornerback, Michigan
He profiles as the next playmaking slot cornerback in Lou Anarumo’s scheme, filling the role that Mike Hilton has thrived in. Hilton is entering a contract year, and the Bengals rely on their slot cornerback to make plays against the run, blitz and fill a variety of roles in the secondary.
Cincinnati Bengals NFL draft needs
The Bengals don’t have any proven contributors on their bench at defensive tackle, offensive guard or cornerback after some depth pieces from last season hit free agency. The Bengals are also looking for a potential long-term starter at defensive tackle and need a player who can contribute as a pass rusher on third downs. They also lost receiver Tyler Boyd and haven’t replaced him, and the Bengals have historically put a lot of value into the wide receiver position. For the Bengals, the No. 3 receiver slot behind Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins is a starting role in their offense.
Cincinnati Bengals NFL draft picks 2024
Round 1, Pick 18: Amarius Mims, offensive tackle, Georgia
Round 2, Pick 49
Round 3, Pick 80
Round 3, Pick 97
Round 4, Pick 115
Round 5, Pick 149
Round 6, Pick 194
Round 6, Pick 214
Round 7, Pick 224
Round 7, Pick 237
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Bengals Day 2 targets: Best available for NFL draft Rounds 2 and 3
