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Ereck Flowers is Bengals Pick in Latest Mock Draft

By Matthew Willson

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Sep 28, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes offensive linesman Ereck Flowers (74) against the South Florida Bulls during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Miami Hurricanes defeated the South Florida Bulls 49-21. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Paul Dehner Jr. of Cincinnati.com and the Cincinnati Enquirer put out his latest mock draft and offensive tackle Ereck Flowers of Miami is the latest option for the Bengals. The Bengals need help against the pass rush, but is he the right pick for the Bengals? Here is what Mr. Dehner said about Flowers:

"Flowers’ buzz continues to grow as the draft draws closer, and many mocks have him rising into the top 15. He projects as the top run-blocking tackle in this draft, and you better believe that resonates in the office of offensive coordinator Hue Jackson. He’ll also be a huge fan of Flowers’ intense attitude on the field. Jackson wants more physicality and nastiness between the lines, and Flowers became defined by that style at Miami.The Bengals will have to judge whether they think Flowers (6-6, 329) can play left tackle, but he does fit the mold of the two current left tackles, Andrew Whitworth (6-7, 335) and Andre Smith (6-4, 340)."

Ereck Flowers is not a bad option at all, and in fact our own Dustin Meritt pointed out the pick earlier this month in his article. He brings a similar size to the position that is currently there and could develop behind Andre Smith and Andrew Whitworth, as both are unrestricted free agents after this season. Although it is yet to be seen whether Flowers will rise to Pro Bowl caliber play like both Whitworth and Smith, the Bengals would be taking a step backwards if they pass on him and he is available.

Another option he lists for the Bengals is one that was pointed out by former Stripe Hype editor and current Cincy Jungle editor Jason Marcum about trading out of the 21st spot and move back.

"Other options in this scenario would include trading back as the team did in 2012 when offensive line coach Paul Alexander preferred Kevin Zeitler over David DeCastro and knew the Wisconsin guard would still be around a few picks later. Slipping back for a project like Pitt’s T.J. Clemmings would make sense if they felt his raw skills could develop by the time he needed to step into a starter role as early as next season."

Both options make complete sense here. If a player like Flowers or defensive options Malcom Brown and Landon Collins are off the board, trading down and picking up maybe a later round draft pick would be the best case scenario. The Bengals have the benefit of picking the best player available, but if it is not an immediate or near future need, then moving back should be the option.

Next: Steven Nelson Fits the Bengals Need at Cornerback

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