Finding 2021 NFL Draft fits for the Cincinnati Bengals: DE Patrick Jones II
Where should the Bengals target Patrick Jones II in the draft?
This is perhaps the trickiest question of them all. With so many question marks in the edge rusher class, it is hard to get a grip on how Jones is viewed by teams.
Jones’ speed and production in college may mean there are a few teams that fall in love with him. The defensive end position is one of high value and should a team have Jones ranked highly on their board then he could cost as much as a second-round pick.
The Bengals have substantial needs on the offensive line and wide receiver so expecting them to spend an early second on Jones seems a bit rich. The only way the Bengals would likely take Jones in the second round would be if they traded back.
More likely the Bengals would draft Jones with their third-round pick. Whether that is sitting and waiting for him to land with them, or trading up into the backend of the second round. Jones II is a polarizing prospect and lean framed speed rusher whose immediate path to snaps would be as a pass rush specialist on passing downs.
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Verdict
Edge rusher is a need the Bengals must fill at some point, even more so if they lose Lawson. If Jones remains on the board when it comes to the Bengals third-round pick then he has to be in the frame.