Cincinnati Bengals could make waves with this projected starting lineup

Mike Jordan, Cincinnati Bengals (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
Mike Jordan, Cincinnati Bengals (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /
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CINCINNATI, OH – OCTOBER 06: Mike Jordan #60 of the Cincinnati Bengals is seen during the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Paul Brown Stadium on October 6, 2019 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OH – OCTOBER 06: Mike Jordan #60 of the Cincinnati Bengals is seen during the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Paul Brown Stadium on October 6, 2019 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

Left Tackle: Jonah Williams

The Bengals are banking on last year’s top-rated offensive line prospect to hit the ground running after his rookie campaign was over before it started, thanks to injury. The extremely disciplined tackle will have a lot of pressure to keep Burrow’s blindside protected but his college tape and profile suggest he’s capable.

Left Guard: Michael Jordan

It’s no coincidence that Michael Jordan started at Ohio State as a true freshman and then earned a starting gig near the beginning of his NFL foray; the 22-year-old is ultra-talented. The belief within the Bengals organization is that he takes a major leap in his development and gives the team a boost in their weakest unit.

Center: Trey Hopkins

A testament to the developmental capabilities of the Bengals, Hopkins has carved out a solid role for himself after going undrafted and dealing with countless injuries upon his entrance to the league. He’ll be the glue that holds the trenches together as the most experienced big man upfront.

Right Guard: Xavier Su’a Filo

The Bengals are gambling on the potential they saw in Su’a Filo’s film when he got playing time in Dallas. He fits offensive line coach Jim Turner’s scheme well but this spot is probably the biggest unknown. Former first-round pick Billy Price as well as Alex Redmond will battle it out to earn the right to protect Burrow.

Right tackle: Fred Johnson

If Johnson can keep up the level of play he put on display to end the 2019 season, he should win this job from Bobby Hart. He’s a mammoth of a man with great potential. Even better, the Bengals stole him away from the divisional rival Steelers on the waiver wire.