2019 NFL Draft: KC Kingdom First Round Mock Draft

2018 NFL Draft: KC Kingdom Mock Draft

Round 1: Pick 11 – Cincinnati Bengals (Kole Berrey)

Cincinnati fans may have been clamoring for an upgrade from incumbent starter Andy Dalton, and with new head coach Zac Taylor on board, it makes sense to start the full rebuild. By the time pick 11 rolled around, the three  top quarterbacks (Murray, Lock and Haskins) and a slew of pass rushers were already off the board.

This allowed the Bengals to snag what could be the top offensive lineman in the draft in Jawaan Taylor. This was a rare case where the team could draft for need and best available.

The Bengals are HURTING on the offensive line. The left side is anchored by Cordy Glenn, who was solid last year. Outside of that, the Bengals line is in shambles. Bobby Hart, the starter for the Bengals at right tackle, was a particular disaster. Taylor offers an upgrade immediately at that position, with hopes of him turning into the future cornerstone at left tackle.

Some would wonder if tackle Jonah Williams out of Alabama would be the better choice here. WIlliams may be more polished in technique, but Taylor is the superior athlete, with a high floor, an even higher ceiling, and potential to be a perennial Pro Bowler. This would give any future quarterback the Bengals acquire a trustworthy tackle to protect him, and would be a great start to the Bengals rebuild.

Staff Reaction: The Bengals selected Taylor likely to force Bobby Hart off the right tackle spot, which is an immediate upgrade at the position. I likely would have added corner Byron Murphy here considering roster issues at the position, but Taylor is the top tackle in the draft and makes the offense better by simply moving Hart off the field. – John