Bengals Monday Roundup: 2015 NFL Draft

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Nov 28, 2014; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils defensive lineman Marcus Hardison (1) sacks Arizona Wildcats quarterback Anu Solomon (12) during the 88th annual territorial cup at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

In the fourth round, the Bengals chose a versatile cornerback/safety option to open their five picks on Day Three of this year’s draft. They chose USC’s Josh Shaw whose speed and ability to close on receivers and make plays at the second level will be a huge advantage for the Bengals. Their second pick of the fourth round was Marcus Hardison, defensive tackle out of Arizona State. He was a projected third-round pick and has the ability to play both defensive end and tackle.

The Bengals then turned back to tight end, which was another head scratcher, as they decided to add Auburn’s C.J. Uzomah. From his video it’s easy to see he was a big and physical tight end at Auburn and could turn out to be a solid pass blocking tight end more than anything, but has the hands to be a quick option when needed. Time will tell how he fits into this team.

In the sixth round, the Bengals grabbed a true free safety. Although CBS Sports‘ Rob Rang called him “undersized,” he has great football intelligence after starting 40 games at Fresno State while collecting 15 interceptions.

The seventh round finally brought a wide receiver, Mario Alford from West Virginia. His 5’8″ frame makes him undersized, but his speed allows him to be a deep threat on offense and effective on special; it gives cause to fans to celebrate the pick. He returned two kicks for touchdowns last season.

The Bengals did a great job of getting what they needed and to pick up the best player available in most cases. It is something that Bengals fans should be happy about heading into the 2015 season and beyond. Lewis and Brown had another solid draft year.

Next: How Just Shaw Fits with Bengals

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