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Despite the signing of Bobby Hart, the Bengals still have a major need at offensive tackle this offseason.
While NFL free agency will present a chance to fix this, the Bengals typically use this to add players along the lines of Hart; guys who are bench depth and aren’t an upgrade, even at a position of weakness.
That’s why the NFL Draft will offer the likeliest solution for one of the worst offensive tackle situations in the NFL. Ideally, it will be addressed in the first round, which is exactly what happens in SB Nation’s latest mock draft, and it’s a familiar name going at No. 12:
2. Cincinnati Bengals: Orlando Brown, OT, Oklahoma
Cincinnati has to figure out how to fix the offensive line this offseason, and that could mean using its first pick on an offensive tackle. Brown is a massive blocker who should immediately help improve the run game.
Orlando Brown is regarded as the high-risk, high-reward offensive tackle in this draft class. He’s got a world of potential and could become a star in this league, but he’s also got enough holes in his game that he could end up being a bust, or at least take several years to become a reliable tackle.
The Bengals need a guy they believe will make a positive impact now, and it’s unclear if they think Brown can be that. If they don’t Notre Dame’s Mike McGlinchey and Texas’ Connor Williams could also be available at pick No. 12.
As for other players the Bengals could consider at this pick, Florida State safety Derwin James, Alabama defensive tackle Da’Ron Payne and Boston College pass-rusher Harold Landry all were still on the board here, as was Mike McGlinchey. Connor Williams actually goes No. 11 overall to the Dolphins.