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Offensive Tackle A First-Round Possibility?

We've mentioned several times in the past week that offensive tackle could be a possible "need" during the 2013 NFL draft, completely dependent on what happens with Andre Smith.

By Josh Kirkendall
Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

There's a chance that the Cincinnati Bengals could select an offensive tackle during the 2013 NFL draft. And we're not talking about Saturday's rounds of finding lightening in a bottle, flash in the pan or resolution to build the back-end of the team's depth. But a first round pick?

Maybe.

Consider that Andrew Whitworth's age and recent issues with a knee suggest an eventual decline. Andre Smith, who could command a decent salary on his next contract, will likely be franchised, making it that much harder for a long term deal in 2014.

Why not prepare?

According to Tony Pauline, an NFL draft expert for DraftInsider.net, one possibility is Alabama tackle D.J. Fluker.

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