With The First Pick
Fansided

2018 NFL Mock Draft: Early June Edition

By Jon Dove

Dec 21, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Wyoming Cowboys quarterback Josh Allen (17) looks to pass during the third quarteragainst the Brigham Young Cougars at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 21, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Wyoming Cowboys quarterback Josh Allen (17) looks to pass during the third quarteragainst the Brigham Young Cougars at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
24 of 33
Next
Nov 5, 2016; Lubbock, TX, USA; University of Texas Longhorns defensive back Malik Jefferson (46) tries to block a pass from Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Patrick Mahomes (5) in the second half at Jones AT&T Stadium. UT defeated Texas Tech 45-37. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 5, 2016; Lubbock, TX, USA; University of Texas Longhorns defensive back Malik Jefferson (46) tries to block a pass from Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Patrick Mahomes (5) in the second half at Jones AT&T Stadium. UT defeated Texas Tech 45-37. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /

23. Cincinnati Bengals- Malik Jefferson, LB, Texas

Malik Jefferson is an undersized but extremely explosive linebacker prospect. He fits the mold of the present-day linebacker in that he can fill multiple roles. This is someone who can push the quarterback, play the run and hold up in coverage.

Jefferson would be a nice fit with the Cincinnati Bengals who are looking for some more depth at the position. They have the unpredictable Vontaze Burfict and Kevin Minter in place, but lack another outside option.

Related Story: Malik Jefferson Scouting Report

Burfict’s injury and suspension history makes it hard to count on his availability. Jefferson would serve as a backup plan while also working his way into the regular rotation.

Cincinnati heads into this season with some major question marks. The biggest is along the offensive line where Jake Fisher and Cedric Ogbuehi look to establish themselves as starters. If one of them falters the Bengals will be in the market for an offensive tackle.

Clemson’s Mitch Hyatt and Notre Dame’s Mike McGlinchey are two options available at this point. However, I have confidence that both Fisher and Ogbuehi will play well enough to claim the long-term starting role.

Cincinnati’s season depends on those two meeting expectations.

Home/Mock Drafts