1.18: Who Should The Cincinnati Bengals Take? (1 Viewer)

[NorrisB]

Seriously this is about the worst draft in the history of the Bengals and thats saying something.

 

[Jene Bramel]

NB

I stopped being a Lewis apologist two seasons ago and I agree (see above) with your assessment of the second round pick. But I don't see an issue with Leon Hall -- what DL would you have taken there? Or do you just not care for Hall?

This defense needs an identity with Thurman off the wagon. Is there a guy you'd definitely have liked to see signed at any point over the past couple of seasons that made sense over one of the offensive players that were extended?

I think the Rucker and Nicholson picks were worse than the Irons pick when you consider the defensive line talent that was on the board last season and this. I still hate the Irons pick over Charles Johnson, but I don't know that there was a defensive player on the board there that was a definite 07 starter.

But I'm with you, I'm putting Lewis firmly on the hot seat this year. Something has to be done with this defense while the offensive linemen are still reasonably healthy at tackle.

 

[Bonzai]

pretty frustated here too.

there were still a couple solid lb's there (shaw, alexander) when they went qb in the fifth.

i just don't get it.

i'm okay with white; i can see him panning out, and i can even forgive the irons pick, but that fifth rounder got under my skin.

nice to see they addressed the dl in the sixth, anybody got the word on that guy?

 

[Jene Bramel]

This draft isn't deep at all. Nothing worth getting excited about so may as well fill out the depth.

Round 6 -- DT Matt Toeaina

Rotational guy who might okay against the run.

Frank Coyle (via Yahoo!)

The good: Toeaina is a powerfully built mobile lineman who played defensive tackle and end during his college career. He possesses good short-range speed, quickness and overall athleticism. His quick footwork and lateral mobility allow him to make plays between the tackles. He shows good instincts against the run.

The bad: Toeaina lacks pass-rush moves and had only five career sacks at Oregon. He needs to improve his off-field work habits and must pay more attention to details. He also needs to add bulk. He has short arms and struggles to separate and clear himself while rushing the passer.

Outlook: Toeaina could become a key role player who eventually starts at end in a 3-4 scheme. This Top 250 prospect could fall through the cracks and end up in the free-agent market because this class has so much depth at defensive end. The San Diego Chargers, San Francisco 49ers and Cleveland Browns are interested.

Round 7 -- G Dan Santucci

Looks like an interior lineman that could play either guard or center. Scouts praise his technique but think he needs size. Hedge on Ben Wilkerson or practice squad material.

Frank Coyle (via Yahoo!)

The good: Santucci combines fine quickness, technique and speed as both drive blocker and pass protector. He has the intangibles, toughness and savvy that should earn him playing time as a pro. He is an aware blocker with good instincts and the quick decision making to adjust fast to stunts and blitz situations. His agility and speed make him one of the better pulling guards in this class, combining speed and the ability to strike and contain a linebacker in space.

The bad: Santucci musts sustain his blocks better when drive blocking, and his marginal size is a concern inside. He is not the type of blocker who is known for power and will not drive a bigger defensive lineman off the ball. He needs to improve his upper body strength and hand punch because he failed to control the top collegiate tackles.

Outlook: He has also played center and could project there as well. Santucci is a tough, aggressive and dependable lineman with nice grades over his career and some further upside with proper strength training. He will be a good second-day pick with the ability to be a surprise starter or functional swing lineman.

 

[NorrisB]

NBI stopped being a Lewis apologist two seasons ago and I agree (see above) with your assessment of the second round pick. But I don't see an issue with Leon Hall -- what DL would you have taken there? Or do you just not care for Hall?This defense needs an identity with Thurman off the wagon. Is there a guy you'd definitely have liked to see signed at any point over the past couple of seasons that made sense over one of the offensive players that were extended?I think the Rucker and Nicholson picks were worse than the Irons pick when you consider the defensive line talent that was on the board last season and this. I still hate the Irons pick over Charles Johnson, but I don't know that there was a defensive player on the board there that was a definite 07 starter.But I'm with you, I'm putting Lewis firmly on the hot seat this year. Something has to be done with this defense while the offensive linemen are still reasonably healthy at tackle.

I would have handled the draft like this:Trade back with Cleveland2.03: Chris HoustonI said from day one I wanted either Revis - Houston - Hall in that order, to get a guy that shut down DJarrett whereas Hall struggled against him great value pick and get a first for next year2. Tim Crowder DE TexasYou simple cannot avoid taking a DE when we have $8.6M tied up to Justin Freakin SmithUnbelievable how this draft went, to ignore that french army that is our front seven is stupid, we spend a freaking 6th round pick on a DT thats our priorities, take a late round pick on line men and pray he sticks.