2017 NFL Mock Draft: Week 16 Update
By Jon Dove
Cincinnati Bengals
1st Round, No. 14 overall- Zach Cunningham, LB, Vanderbilt
2nd Round, No. 46 overall- OJ Howard, TE, Alabama
3rd Round, No. 78 overall- Isaiah Ford, WR, Virginia Tech
The Cincinnati Bengals have been hampered by injuries and should be able to get back on track next season. On a positive note, they are picking much earlier than they’re use to and can theoretically get better talent.
Zach Cunningham is an explosive linebacker who can cover a ton of ground. He’s someone who can both support the run and hold up in coverage. Cunningham has flashed the ability to make plays behind the line of scrimmage.
Cincinnati needs to find a legitimate backup plan for Tyler Eifert. When healthy, Eifert is a difference maker who has a knack for finding the end zone. The issue is he’s routinely on the injury report and not always available.
OJ Howard would be someone the Bengals can play at the same time as Eifert and use more heavily when he’s injured. It’s no coincidence that Andy Dalton’s play suffers when his top tight end is out of the lineup.
Isaiah Ford is a well-rounded receiver who can stretch the field and pick up yards after the catch. Cincinnati is still looking to find long-term replacements for Marvin Jones and Mohamed Sanu.