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2020 Draft: Cincinnati Bengals’ Best Linebacker Options

By Blake Jewell

STARKVILLE, MS - SEPTEMBER 21: Linebacker Willie Gay Jr. #6 of the Mississippi State Bulldogs runs the ball downfield after an interception during the first quarter of their game against the Kentucky Wildcats at Davis Wade Stadium on September 21, 2019 in Starkville, Mississippi. (Photo by Michael Chang/Getty Images)
STARKVILLE, MS - SEPTEMBER 21: Linebacker Willie Gay Jr. #6 of the Mississippi State Bulldogs runs the ball downfield after an interception during the first quarter of their game against the Kentucky Wildcats at Davis Wade Stadium on September 21, 2019 in Starkville, Mississippi. (Photo by Michael Chang/Getty Images) /
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With linebacker being a position of need for the Cincinnati Bengals, they could address the position in the 2020 NFL draft.

The likelihood that Kenneth Murray or Patrick Queen will be available at pick 33 is looking slim. Due to the gap between linebacker prospects from the top tier to the next tier, this list will start in round three.

Zack Baun is a linebacker type the Bengals could target at the top of the second round but is considered more of an edge rusher. With that said, here’s a look at six of the Bengals’ best traditional linebacker options in the upcoming draft.

Middle rounds (3-5):

Akeem Davis-Gaither, Appalachian State

The Bengals would be getting an athletic linebacker who is solid in coverage and an effective tackler in Akeem Davis-Gaither. He’s arguably the most realistic linebacker option for Cincinnati in the draft, and taking the 22-year-old would add much-needed speed to the linebacker core. The 2019 Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year recorded 101 tackles, 5 sacks, and an interception in his senior season at Appalachian State.

Willie Gay Jr, Mississippi State

Willie Gay Jr is a quick, explosive linebacker and at times shows good coverage abilities. The 6’1, 243-pound linebacker has the physical traits needed to be a great player in the NFL. However, some scouts mention his processing speed may not be up to par. Gay is someone that could have a pretty good upside, considering his limitations can be overcome with more experience.

Related Story. Cincinnati Bengals’ Best Options at Pick 33. light

Troy Dye, Oregon

The Bengals are looking for three-down linebackers, and Troy Dye fits that description. The team ran a 4-2-5 defense last season, meaning the two linebackers must be solid against the run and have the athleticism to cover. With Germaine Pratt showing promise and Josh Bynes signing a one-year deal for Cincinnati, Dye likely wouldn’t immediately start, but would certainly see some time on the field rotating in at the linebacker position.

Late rounds (6-7):

Evan Weaver, California

In these rounds, the Bengals will be looking to add depth to their linebacker core. Evan Weaver is a good option to fill this role due to his football IQ and tackling abilities. He lacks some of the athletic abilities preferred at the linebacker position, but his consistent tackling and leadership would be a nice addition to the roster.

Chris Orr, Wisconsin

The Bengals have reportedly met with Chris Orr this offseason, and this pick could be a nice depth move in the late rounds. Orr is solid at filling gaps and has pretty good athleticism. The redshirt senior recorded 11.5 sacks and 78 tackles last season for the Wisconsin Badgers. He would certainly fit well as a depth piece for the Bengals defense going forward.

Mohamed Barry, Nebraska

Mohamed Barry is a pretty good athlete, and if Cincinnati is looking to add athleticism to their linebacker core in the late rounds, taking the former Nebraska defender would be a solid pick. The 23-year-old is a high motor player that recorded 89 total tackles and a sack in his final season for Nebraska.