The Cincinnati Bengals lost one of the two expected Ohio State players that were favored when the Pittsburgh Steelers selected linebacker Ryan Shazier -- perhaps the best three-down backer in the 2014 NFL Draft. Shazier is expected to be an inside linebacker, per Mike Mayock on the NFL Network broadcast. On the other hand, Pittsburgh needs to replace the departed Lamarr Woodley.
Cincinnati was reportedly showing heavy interest in Shazier, but will now stare down the former Buckeyes in the form of BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Giovani Bernard. Tyler Eifert and Jermaine Gresham will have their opportunities but Shazier is quick and agile.
If the Bengals employ bigger bodies at left guard and center, it might neutralize the speedy and somewhat undersized backer if he plays inside; Andre Smith and Andrew Whitworth tend to struggle with speedy rushers.
Still. Strong pick for the Steelers.