Five prospects the Bengals can target with Penei Sewell out of reach

Bengals’ draft prospects: Gregory Rousseau

Unfortunately for a Bengals franchise that’s in need of pass rush help, this draft class does not offer the elite defensive ends that past years have. There is no Chase Young, Myles Garrett, or Bosa brother to be had in 2021.

However, Gregory Rousseau looked like he was on the brink of becoming that type of slam dunk player prior to opting out this season. As a sophomore in 2019, he racked up a mind-boggling 15.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery.

If he was able to produce such elite statistics that young, it begs the question: What would his stat line have looked like this season? His 6’6, 250-pound frame paired with incredible athleticism certainly suggests that he could have topped his stellar campaign.

Cincinnati will need to find help in some form to pair with Carl Lawson, who will hopefully be brought back in free agency this year. A trio of Lawson, Hubbard, and Rousseau would undoubtedly help solve their pass rushing woes and help keep the team competitive, even against the best quarterbacks.

An offensive line heavy free-agent class, edge rusher in round one, and more young offensive lineman later in the draft could be the path the front office is eyeing this offseason. If that is indeed the route they plan to take, no other pass rusher offers the ceiling that Rousseau has.