Bengals' Draft Dilemma: Big Splash or Patient Build?

0:00On March 30, Bengals wrapped free agency by grabbing safety, brine cook, and defensive end boy, Maffe. But they skipped the linebacker altogether. They're top-need. Now all eyes shift to next month's NFL draft, where Cincinnati picks 10th overall. Coaches seems set on developing their young guys like Demetrius Night Junior and Barric Carter as future starters. So no big free agent splashed there. That leaves the draft as the main play for linebacker help. They're eyeing versatile pieces that fit defensive coordinator Al Golden's scheme, kind of like the Ravens' Kyle Hamilton, who the Bengals have praised. For years, sunny styles from Ohio State tops the list as a round one option at Pig 10, a former safety with man-cover skills and multi-spot impact. Fans and analysts are buzzing about how urgent this is, especially after letting special teams Ace Tyson Anderson walk for peanuts. Anthony Hill Jr. from Texas shines in Round 2 with elite athleticism, 17 sacks in college, and way better tackling lately.

1:02He's got that pro bowl vibe, instinctive and speedy sideline to sideline. Deeper into the draft, Missouri's Josiah Trotter in Round 3 brings NFL bloodlines as son of a four-time pro bowler, plus blitzing chops for depth, and special teams. LSU's Harold Perkins Jr. could fall to Round 4 despite his ACL setback, still flashing backfield disruption. Later rounds offer Bryce Boetcher from Oregon, a two-sport stud for special teams, and BYU's Jack Kelly as a pass rush specialist. With the AFC North-Staying rugged, Bengals got to decide if they go big early or build depth patiently. Either way, these picks could lock down the middle for years. That's your NFL News Today update, AI-powered and always on.