:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59545987/879190184.jpg.0.jpg)
The first round is over, which means we won’t be seeing anymore mock drafts. Wrong! That just means it is time for second round mock drafts!
The Bengals filled their biggest need in round one by selecting the Ohio State center Billy Price. He brings even more stability to an offensive line that desperately needed it. What do the Bengals have to look forward to in the second round though?
Based on the players left they could very well be content to sit at 46 and see who falls to them. There are several high caliber offensive linemen, safeties and defensive linemen left.
They may even be tempted to take one of the top tight ends from the draft since three of their tight ends will be set to be free agents next offseason.
It seems as if the world is the Bengals oyster at this point as they will also have two picks in the third round as well. They no longer have a position they need filled with a Day 1 starter, so they can feel free to take the best player available the rest of the weekend.
Here is who some of the top sports outlets have the Bengals taking in the second round.
Sports Illustrated: Ronnie Harrison, S, Alabama
Good value here, with a bigger hybrid-type stepping into a defense that’s gotten a little bit older.
FantasyPros: Christian Kirk, WR, Texas A&M
Before you jump on me for this pick, the Bengals have been doing extensive research on wide receivers who were expected to be taken in the second- to third-round range. Kirk is most definitely an upgrade over Tyler Boyd and there’s not a linebacker in this range that should entice them. In fact, it would be wise for the Bengals to trade this pick and acquire some more draft capital.
USA Today: Connor Williams, OL, Texas
Yes, Cincinnati took Billy Price in Round 1. But if any team should realize the folly of neglecting its front five, it should be this one. If Williams proves he can’t handle the rigors of playing right tackle, he’d still be an upgrade at right guard.
NFL.com: Lorenzo Carter, LB, Georgia
Carter helps to upgrade the Bengals’ speed at linebacker and gives them some rush talent as a bonus.
Matt Miller Bleacher Report: Harrison Phillips, DL, Stanford
The Bengals used their first-round selection on center Billy Price and can now work on improving the defensive line with their second-rounder. Harrison Phillips is a powerful defender who can tackle with the best of them. Thanks to his intangibles and run-stuffing ability, this young man should become an immediate starter for Cincy.