Bengals Mock Draft: Love, Ponds, Dennis-Sutton

0:00On March 27th, the Cincinnati Bengals boast the powerhouse offense led by Joe Burrow, Jamar Chase, and T Higgins, but their defense still has major gaps. With the 2026 NFL draft as weeks away, beat writer John Sheeran joined a podcast for an early three-round mock draft targeting the team's picks at number 10, number 41, and number 72. Sheeran faced a tough board at the top spot as several top defensive prospects like Ohio State's linebackers and Miami's edge-resher were already gone. He pivoted to an unexpected choice that fits the Bengals' strengths. In the first round at pick number 10, Sheeran selected running back Jeremiah Love from Notre Dame. Love's speed and vision was shined behind Cincinnati's solid offensive line and playmakers, making him a smart addition to balance the attack. Later, at pick number 41, in round two, the Bengals grabbed cornerback D'Angelo Ponds from Indiana, a feisty slot defender who plays bigger than.

1:01His size, much like former standout Mike Hilton, Vin, and number 72, they add Penn State edge-resher Danny Dena Sutton, a high upside athlete with a frame in traits Cincinnati loves, especially as a value steal after a down year. This unorthodox haul bolsters the run game in secondary while chasing past rush potential, bringing up the Bengals to contend if the offense keeps, firing on all cylinders.