The Cincinnati Bengals didn’t have another blockbuster move on Thursday night as the first round of the NFL draft unfolded.
Those Bengals, as expected, did not trade back up into the first round to compensate for the loss of the 10th overall pick while acquiring Dexter Lawrence via trade.
And looking at the best prospects remaining, that’s probably a good thing. Here’s an updated look at a Bengals seven-round mock draft, starting with Round 2, using the simulator from Pro Football Network.
Round 2 (41): D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana
There’s a perception the Bengals must draft a linebacker no matter what in the second round. But Lawrence’s addition in the trenches will really help the guys already on the roster.
More concerning is cornerback, where they have yet to find a nickel starter. D’Angelo Ponds could be that guy as a rookie, which means they would get to keep Dax Hill in his very natural-feeling starter spot on the boundary.
Round 3 (72): Connor Lew, OC, Auburn
Boring? Maybe. But the Bengals need to start thinking about life after Ted Karras. Connor Lew is one of the supposed starting-caliber centers in this year’s class, so he might be able to help right away, if needed. Keep in mind the Bengals’ unexpected cut of Matt Lee recently.
Round 4 (110): Isaiah World, OT, Oregon
Yes, yes, boring. But it’s hard to pass on a guy with experience at left and right tackle right here. Offensive tackle depth is more important than ever. The Bengals’ top swing-tackle backup option is…Cody Ford. Isaiah World might have starter potential eventually, too.
Round 6 (189): Marlin Klein, TE, Michigan
Tight end depth is something the Bengals need to be thinking about in this draft. Mike Gesicki is a big slot guy and Drew Sample is one-dimensional in the other direction as a blocker. Erick All has the injury woes. Marlin Klein is a 6’6” target with some really interesting upside.
Round 6 (199): Adam Randall, RB, Clemson
Like tight end and wideout, the Bengals quietly need some better depth at running back. Adam Randall is notable for his background as a former wideout, which makes him a versatile weapon out of the backfield.
Round 7 (221): Red Murdock, LB, Buffalo
Undersized but massively productive, Red Murdock would be a possible impact player on special teams right away while beefing up the depth at linebacker.
Round 7 (226): Preston Hodge, CB, Colorado
Another shot at cornerback. No such thing as too many of those. Depth is quietly a big need. Preston Hodge could get in the mix in the slot and on special teams.
This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Cincinnati Bengals updated NFL mock draft after first round