The Cincinnati Bengals were in attendance for Alabama's pro day. A total of 14 players demonstrated their skills for representatives of 30 teams that showed up for the work out. The only teams who did attend were the Chicago Bears and St. Louis Rams.
In many mock drafts the Bengals have been linked to running back Trent Richardson, safety Mark Barron, and cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick. Of those three only Kirkpatrick participated in drills. Barron is still nursing an injury and is expected to work out on March 29. Richardson will also work out for teams that day.
Of the 14 prospects to work out the Bengals could target Kirkpatrick or linebacker Dont'a Hightower in the draft. The Bengals will undoubtedly have interest in Barron and Richardson as they are both considered to be the top players at their position.
Kirkpatrick had an excellent work out. He's already considered a first-round talent and with his work out today he further established his place as a first round pick. At the combine he ran the 40-yard dash in 4.43 seconds and had a vertical jump of 35-inches. He has the ideal size for a cornerback and is very physical.
Hightower stood by his combine numbers with his performance. He ran a 4.68 short shuttle and ran a 7.55 second cone drill. Overall he worked really well and improved his stock heading into the draft. He's projected as a second round selection.
The Bengals have holes to fill at cornerback, safety, and running back as well as many other positions. They could also look to add more depth at linebacker depending on what happens during free agency. Any of these players would provide an immediate impact on the team. If any of these players are on the board when the Bengals are on the clock then don't be surprised to see one of them end up in Cincinnati.