Pro Football Talk Draft Review: Cincinnati Bengals
By Jason Marcum
Oct 6, 2012; Auburn, AL, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks receiver Cobi Hamilton (11) gets past Auburn Tigers defensive back Jonathon Mincy (6) during the first half at Jordan-Hare Stadium. The Razorbacks beat the Tigers 24-7. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports
The NFL Draft grades continue to flow in, and they continue to be good for the Cincinnati Bengals, and Mike Florio of PFT is that latest to sing the praises of another successful Bengals draft class:
"Where they hit: With a growing nucleus of talented players, the Bengals could afford to go “best available” in round one. And they did, via a tight end who’ll help diversify the passing game. With receiver A.J. Green attracting extra attention, Eifert (who’ll wear Chad Johnson’s No. 85) and tight end Jermaine Gresham will be able to find favorable matchups in the underneath zones and in the seams. Bernard likewise expands the offensive options, giving the Bengals a much-needed complement to BenJarvus Green-Ellis. By re-signing right tackle Andre Smith and systemically addressing areas of need, the Bengals could be ready to take the next step. Or two.Where they missed: Burkhead feels like a reach in round six. He’s the kind of guy they could have found among the ranks of the undrafted free agents. Still, if that’s the worst thing that can be said about a 10-man draft class, it’s a pretty good draft class.Impact rookies: Eifert and Bernard could make major contributions right away. Hunt could also earn extensive playing time in the defensive line rotation, wreaking havoc as offensive lines focus on guys like Michael Johnson and Geno Atkins. And don’t overlook Cobi Hamilton, a possession receiver who could earn reps across from Green — especially if Mohamed Sanu has any setbacks as he recovers from a foot injury that derailed his rookie season.Long-term prospects: The Bengals, with two straight playoff berths in non-strike seasons for the first time in franchise history, aren’t getting complacent. Marvin Lewis, one of the longest-tenured coaches in the league, seems intent on building a consistent contender. With Eifert, Bernard, and Hunt leading the class of incoming rookies, the Bengals could be poised to keep making the postseason, indefinitely."
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