2018 NFL Mock Draft: Opening Weekend Edition
By Jon Dove
18. Cincinnati Bengals- Mike McGlinchey, OT, Notre Dame
A lot of the Cincinnati Bengals success this season relies on the development of Jake Fisher and Cedric Ogbuehi. The Bengals drafted these two to be the team’s long-term offensive tackles. Their development thus far has been slow, but they will get their chance to shine this year.
This pick comes on the assumption that one of the two doesn’t meet expectations. If that is the case, the Bengals need to act quickly to sure up their offensive line. They decided against re-signing Andrew Whitworth which puts more pressure on both players to perform at a high level.
Mike McGlinchey is one of the top rated offensive tackles in the 2018 NFL Draft. He’s a solid athlete who features quick feet and balance. His time at Notre Dame has provide him with plenty of experience against high-level competition.
McGlinchey passed on entering the draft last year in order to solidify his draft stock. At this point, he is safely in the 1st round mix.
The Bengals could also use this pick to find a long-term replacement for the unreliable Vontaze Burfict. His inability to maintain his composure has put the Bengals in tough situations time after time.