The Bengals addressed needs in Rounds 2-3, but they need to still be looking for contributors on Day 3.
With day 2 in the books, the Cincinnati Bengals have possibly addressed their needs at linebacker and guard.
With that in mind, they still have needs to fill at defensive tackle and safety. They can also still add a swing tackle, as well as depth at running back and wide receiver, so there should be lots of options to get good players on day 3.
With that said, let’s take a crack at a day 3 mock draft.
Round 4 Pick 17: Dylan Sampson RB, Tennessee
The Bengals added Samaje Perine and kept Zack Moss under contract despite his injury, neither of whom has the speed and explosion of Chase Brown. That’s why it could make sense for the Bengals to add an explosive back in case Brown misses time so the offense doesn’t have to miss a step.
In round 4, they could target two different explosive backs: Dylan Sampson, one of the youngest backs in the class, or Bhayshul Tuten of Virginia Tech. In this mock, I give them Sampson, but if either one is at the Bengals’ fourth-round pick, they need to consider it. The offense takes a clear step down if Brown isn’t on the field, and having someone who is explosive to step in could be big for key games.
Round 5 Pick 15: Jalen Travis OT, Iowa State
The Bengals’ third offensive tackle at the moment is a bit of a question mark as we enter the third day of the draft. While it is unlikely they can get a real decent starter on day 3, Travis is a big 6’8, 340-pound OT with 34-inch arms and very good athleticism. Taking Travis as a developmental swing OT is a perfect bet on someone who could end up outplaying his draft slot in the end.
Round 6 Pick 17: Jaylin Lane WR, Virginia Tech
The Bengals have a lot of question marks at wide receiver behind the top two guys, and they could use someone with some returning experience and special teams experience. Lane is a good fit. A supremely good athlete who did not produce a ton in college, but that is why he may be available on late day 3 of the class. He should be able to play right away on special teams and could compete for some wide receiver snaps with Jermaine Burton and Charlie Jones.
Which of these picks would you change? Who do you want the Bengals to draft on Day 3?