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The Cincinnati Bengals will probably be adding multiple offensive linemen during the draft after the position group has been a serious issue these past few seasons.
There is also the chance that offensive line coach Frank Pollack will look to add some developmental guys. One name that could come wouldn’t have to travel far after playing at Illinois for three seasons.
Kendrick Green
School: Illinois
Position: Interior offensive line
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 305 pounds
Projected Round: Late Third/Early Fourth
Green is a versatile offensive lineman. He has experience at guard and center when he played at Illinois. That versatility is something the Bengals’ covet in their linemen. As far as his actual ability goes, Green fits best into a zone style play as he is quick to get to his spot. He also excels at positioning himself to open the hole for his running back.
He does have some holes in his game that need addressed. His pass protection is a little bit of an issue. Specifically, he has issues with power rushers and recognizing when an edge rusher is looping back around. His 32.25” arms is another issue that isn’t ideal.
Fit with the Bengals
Cincinnati has obvious issues at offensive line as anyone could see from watching in 2020. The real issue right now is with the interior offensive line. The Bengals have Quinton Spain and Xavier Su’a-Filo likely having a competition at left guard, but the team also needs an answer at right guard.
Green may not be a plug-and-play lineman, but he has plenty of promise to possibly become a starter. Cincinnati needs a long-term answer at guard and possibly center down the road. It is up in the air what will happen with players like Michael Jordan and Billy Price in the long-term now that Pollack has returned to coach the offensive line. Green could come in and be a valuable backup in 2021 who could possibly develop into a starter soon if the current young options don't turn it around or when the veterans move on.
It all really depends on where Cincinnati can snag Green. It looks like he will be around late on Day 2 and into Day 3. Obviously a fourth or fifth-round pick is more ideal for a player who probably shouldn't be playing major snaps in 2021, but he wouldn't be the worst option to throw into the right guard race if need be.