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The Bengals can’t have been satisfied with the performance of their offensive line in 2016, although their draft strategy in 2017 would have you guessing otherwise. Despite owning 11 picks in the 2017 NFL Draft, they only drafted one offensive lineman: center J.J. Dielman of Utah. However, they found a way to add offensive line talent through undrafted free agency by signing offensive guard Kent Perkins of Texas.
Texas lineman Kent Perkins is headed to the Bengals as a free agent.
— Brian Davis (@BDavisAAS) April 30, 2017
Congrats to big Kent Perkins on signing with the @Bengals! Another LH alum in the @NFL! We are proud of you big man! pic.twitter.com/cXIW2Mi3Oj
— LHHS Football (@LHHS_FOOTBALL) April 30, 2017
Offensive guard is a huge need for the Bengals in 2017 after losing right guard Kevin Zeitler to the Cleveland Browns in free agency. Perkins was a 10-game starter for the Longhorns in 2016 and helped pave the way for D’Onta Foreman and the 19th best rushing game in the NCAA. The University of Texas has never averaged as many yards per game (491.2) throughout their history as they did in 2016 with Perkins protecting the inside.
The Bengals only drafted one offensive lineman in J.J. Dielman so it’s very possible an undrafted player makes the roster along the offensive line.