Bengals strengthen defense in way-too-early 2022 mock draft

Round 3: Pick 82 – Owen Pappoe, LB (Auburn)

The Bengals have a young linebacker corps that could look to add some depth.

Logan Wilson looks to be a starter in Cincinnati for a while if his play continues. Germaine Pratt had a good season-opener. There’s a lot to be determined about Cincinnati’s linebackers this season, as of now, they could look to draft another linebacker next year.

Owen Pappoe is an extremely athletic linebacker from Auburn that possesses a high ceiling, making him another good value in the third round. Here’s some of a scouting report on Pappoe,

"“Looking at the Auburn LB, Pappoe’s speed and explosiveness are immediately apparent. He has extraordinary explosiveness when playing at full speed with striking natural cramps and lateral bursts. This lateral athletic ability allows him to clog the lane when engaging blockers, contributing to a large closing burst as a tackler. He can quickly adjust the tackle angle and he knows how to wrap using his length.”"

His athletic ability also allows him to be good in coverage too. Pappoe is a little small at 6’1″, but it rarely holds him back as he sheds blocks regularly. Pappoe’s speed makes him a good blitzing linebacker and he’s an all-around linebacker with good potential.