Cincinnati filled its need for an edge rusher in Round 1. What’s next?
The Cincinnati Bengals drafted for need Thursday evening when they grabbed Shemar Stewart of Texas A&M with the 17th pick of the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Bengals currently hold two picks in Rounds 2-3:
- Round 2 – pick 49
- Round 3 – pick 81
Is there a trade in the cards for the Bengals, or will they stick to the script on day 2? Whatever the case, here are some of the biggest holes the Bengals still need to address on Day 2 of the draft:
Defensive Tackle
Cincinnati struggled to stop the run last year and get pressure on the quarterback from the interior. They have to find a way to upgrade the position, and there should be some solid options on the board on Day 2.
Defensive End
With the Trey Hendrickson situation still up in the air, the Bengals grabbed Stewart in the first round. But that doesn’t mean they are finished. With Hendrickson likely gone by 2026 and Myles Murphy failing to prove he’s not a bust, don’t be surprised if the Bengals take another edge, especially if someone like Jack Sawyer is still on the board.
Linebacker
It seems like most everyone is resigned to losing Pratt at some point this year, but this wasn’t exactly a position group that thrived even when he did play. It’s time to find some juice for this unit.
Safety
Cincinnati didn’t get the safety play it expected in 2024, and with the loss of Vonn Bell, the Bengals may well be looking for an upgrade over Geno Stone and/or Jordan Battle.
Guard
Cincinnati needs to shore up the interior of its offensive line if it hopes to keep Joe Burrow healthy for another year. Cordell Volson and Cody Ford cannot be allowed to be the starting guards this year. But for now, that’s exactly who is starting.
Cornerback
Until we can get a full and quality season from Dax Hill and/or DJ Turner, this position group is a major question mark entering the 2025 season.
What do you think the Bengals’ biggest Day 2 needs are? Sound off!