What positions do the Bengals need to draft? Exploring Cincinnati’s needs in 2024 NFL Draft

Despite losing Joe Burrow to a season-ending injury, the Cincinnati Bengals ended the 2023 season with a 9-8 record. Jake Browning, their backup quarterback, stepped up and led the team for a considerable part of the season. As they head into this upcoming draft, Cincinnati has a total of 10 picks, including an additional compensatory pick in the third round.

Cincinnati Bengals’ Team Needs for the 2024 NFL Draft: A Comprehensive Analysis

1) Top Wide Receiver Targets for Fantasy Football Drafts

Inarguably, the Cincinnati Bengals’ greatest requirement for the 2024 NFL Draft is depth at the wide receiver position.

During the offseason, the Bengals made the decision to release veteran Tyler Boyd. In addition, star wide receiver Tee Higgins has expressed a desire to be traded due to disagreements over his contract. While Cincinnati placed the franchise tag on Higgins for the 2024 season, if they do end up trading him before the start of the season, they will have to find a way to replace the production of both Higgins and Boyd through the NFL Draft.

Although they have standout player Ja’Marr Chase and a skilled roster including Andrei Iosivas, Trenton Irwin, and Charlie Jones, Joe Burrow may desire additional weapons to utilize in his playing.

Despite the unlikelihood of using a premium pick on a wide receiver, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Bengals opt to use one of their two third-round picks on the position.

2) Interior Defensive Lineman

Despite acquiring Sheldon Rankins to fill the void left by the departure of defensive tackle D.J. Reader, the Cincinnati Bengals still need to bolster their depth at the position.

In 2021, when the Bengals reached the Super Bowl, they had Reader, B.J. Hill, and Larry Ogunjobi as strong players in the position. Since then, they have tried out various young players without success.

Although Hill remains on the roster, bringing in a rookie DT such as Johnny Newton from Illinois to play alongside him and Rankins could be a great choice for Cincinnati.

3) Quarterback

Despite their efforts, the Cincinnati Bengals have struggled with their offensive line for quite some time, leaving Joe Burrow with minimal time to get settled in the pocket.

They have invested heavily in free agents such as Orlando Brown Jr., Alex Cappa, Ted Karras, and most recently, Trent Brown.

Despite their offensive line being solid, it may be beneficial for the team to bring in younger players, as both Karras and Trent Brown are currently in their thirties.

The Bengals have a wide selection of talented offensive tackles to choose from with their first pick, including Amarium Mims, JC Latham, Troy Fautanu, Taliese Fuaga, and Olumuyiwa Fashanu. These players are all expected to be available when the Bengals make their 18th overall selection.

4) Wide Receiver

Despite acquiring Mike Gesicki and re-signing Tanner Hudson and Drew Sample, the Bengals could benefit from adding another tight end to their roster.

Brock Bowers has garnered significant attention in Bengals forums, causing many fans to eagerly anticipate the potential of him catching passes from Joe Burrow for the next decade.

Despite Gesicki being signed to a one-year deal, Hudson approaching 30 years old, and Sample’s reputation as a blocking tight end, there is still potential for a skilled player like Bowers to make an impact at the position.

If he happens to fall to the 18th overall pick, Cincinnati may have to seriously consider selecting the former Georgia Bulldog.