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JAKE FISHER (2nd round, 53 overall), OT, Oregon:
Viewed as a strong zone blocker who comes into the league with some issues -- notably elite-level strength in the running game -- but generally always succeeds due to his dedication to technique. Fisher is capable of playing left and right tackle, and is versatile enough to slide inside to guard as a primary backup interior lineman.
Grade (Immediate Contribution): D
Overall Grade: B
Fisher will become a long-term contributor, but he's no experiment/project. As he develops into a full-time player, Fisher will become a factor in Cincinnati's long-term plans. Will it happen immediately? No. Can he slide into a backup position at any position on the offensive line? Yes.
TYLER KROFT (3rd round, 85 overall), TE, Rutgers
Cincinnati spent 20 minutes working out Kroft during Rutgers' pro day in March and they see him as a worthwhile investment. In addition to being a decent blocker, he has enough athletisim to be a threat in the passing game. "Quick release off the line and gets into routes with good play speed. Able to get yards after catch with quickness and some thump as a runner. Played from slot in 2013 and more in-line in 2014. Has speed and athleticism to threaten the deep middle."
Grade (Immediate Contribution): B
Overall Grade: C
This was addressing a need for Cincinnati, who enters the offseason with Tyler Eifert (who is coming off a dislocated elbow), Kevin Brock and Jake Murphy.
PAUL DAWSON (3rd round, 99 overall), LB, TCU
The team's compensatory pick (earned for losing Michael Johnson to free agency last year) could be viewed as the "steal" and perhaps the most favorable pick for the Bengals on night 2 of the draft. Many projected Dawson to be taken earlier in the draft, even in the first round. During his senior season in 2014, Dawson posted 136 tackles with 20 for loss and four interceptions. He earned the distinction of Big 12 defensive player of the year and a spot on the first-team All-Big 12 squad.
With Vontaze Burfict recovering from microfracture surgery, Cincinnati applied a heavy second-round tender on Emmanuel Lamur and signed veteran A.J. Hawk during free agency. That's in addition to the three-year deal that Cincinnati inked with Rey Maualuga.
Grade (Immediate Contribution): A
Overall Grade: A