Bengals Draft: Speed & Pressure

0:00It's April 24th. NFL News Today starts now, AI-powered, and game-ready. I'm Cory with the story. The Cincinnati Bengals jump into the 2026 NFL Draft tonight with no first-round pick after trading it to the Giants for defensive tackle. Dexter Lawrence, their first election comes in the second round at Pick 41, kicking off at 7pm Eastern. They hold seven picks total across the remaining rounds, eyeing help at defensive end, defensive back, linebacker, and offensive line death to bolster, the roster. Earlier this week, the Bengals wrapped Day 1 without a top pick, but now they're primed for Day 2 action. Rounds 2 and 3 air tonight on ABC, ESPN, and NFL Network with rounds 4 through 7 hitting Saturday at noon. This draft class offers athletic talent that could plug immediate gaps in their defense. Fans are buzzing about how Cincinnati addresses their secondary and pass rush needs, especially after a season where pressure on quarterbacks fell.

1:00Short. The team enters with high expectations to build around Joe Burrow, and these mid-round selections could spark real impact if they hit right. Our Bengals beat reporter Kelsey Conway drops a fresh mock draft, projecting South Carolina cornerback Brandon Sissy at Pick 41. The guys got blazing speed with a 4.4-140 yard dash, linked to match elite receivers, and solid stats from his starter. After 27 tackles, five pass breakups, plus a pick and forced fumble. Then in round 3 at 72, Missouri defensive in Zion Young brings 9-6, 16.5 tackles for loss, and 53. Pressures from the SEC. As the Bengals hunt for those game changers tonight, keep eyes peeled. These picks might just flip their defensive script and set up a stronger run-at. The playoffs come fall.