Way too early projection of Bengals starting offensive line in 2022

Center: Tyler Linderbaum

Well, this is an unfamiliar name, isn’t it, Bengals fans?

Before we dive into more about Tyler Linderbaum, let’s discuss the current state of the center position in Cincinnati. Trey Hopkins looked like a steal at the position but he hasn’t been the same player since tearing his ACL in the Bengals’ final game last season.

To this point, Hopkins is a liability on the o-line and it’s time for the Bengals to explore other options at center. Tyler Linderbaum of Iowa looks to be the best center prospect in the 2022 NFL Draft and if the Bengals have a shot at him, they shouldn’t hesitate to add him to their roster.

When I did a mock draft simulation on Pro Football Network, Linderbaum — who was the No. 16 prospect on the site — was available when the Bengals were on the clock in the first round. He’d be hard to pass up considering the team’s need for a starting center in 2022.

One thing is for sure though — Hopkins shouldn’t be the starting center for the Bengals past 2021.