Bengals 2025 Mock Draft

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Post on Feb 07, 2025

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Bengals 2025 Mock Draft: Predicting the Future of Cincinnati Football

The Cincinnati Bengals have surged to the forefront of the AFC, showcasing a young, explosive offense led by the electrifying Joe Burrow. However, the NFL is a constantly evolving landscape, demanding consistent roster improvement to remain competitive. This mock draft for the 2025 NFL Draft attempts to project the Bengals' needs and potential selections, factoring in potential player development, free agency moves, and the ever-unpredictable nature of the league.

Analyzing the Current Roster & Future Needs

Before diving into the mock draft, we must assess the Bengals' current roster and anticipate potential areas of weakness by 2025. While the offense is largely set with Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Joe Mixon, there are several positions that require attention:

Offensive Line: A Perennial Concern

The offensive line remains a crucial area of concern. While the Bengals have invested resources here in recent years, consistent protection for Burrow is paramount. Injuries and inconsistencies have plagued this unit, necessitating further investment in the 2025 draft. A high-quality tackle or interior offensive lineman could be a priority.

Defensive Depth: Beyond the Starters

The Bengals' defense has shown flashes of brilliance, but depth remains a crucial issue. While stars like Logan Wilson and Trey Hendrickson anchor the unit, consistent performance throughout the season requires a strong bench. Linebackers, defensive backs, and even defensive linemen could be targets depending on free agency outcomes and player development.

Special Teams: A Consistent Area for Improvement

While not always a high-priority draft focus, special teams play can significantly impact game outcomes. A reliable kicker, punter, or return specialist could be considered, especially if current players underperform or leave via free agency.

The 2025 Bengals Mock Draft: Round by Round Breakdown

This mock draft assumes the Bengals do not make any significant trades. Their draft position is speculative, based on projected 2024 season performance.

Round 1: Addressing Offensive Line Stability

Pick: #15 Overall

Selection: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern (projected)

Skoronski is a projected top-15 pick known for his polished technique and exceptional pass protection skills. He provides the immediate upgrade the Bengals' offensive line desperately needs, protecting Burrow and opening running lanes for Mixon. His versatility allows him to play both tackle and guard, providing flexibility for the Bengals' coaching staff.

Round 2: Bolstering the Defensive Front Seven

Pick: #48 Overall

Selection: Caleb Kelly, OLB, Oklahoma (projected)

With potential departures in free agency, adding another athletic linebacker is crucial. Kelly, a projected second-rounder, possesses excellent speed and instincts, fitting perfectly into the Bengals' defensive scheme. He can contribute immediately on special teams and develop into a valuable rotational linebacker.

Round 3: Adding Depth in the Secondary

Pick: #80 Overall

Selection: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois (projected)

Adding depth at cornerback is vital. Witherspoon, possessing excellent coverage skills and physicality, could provide valuable depth and potentially challenge for a starting role. His tenacity and ball skills would be a valuable asset to the Bengals’ secondary.

Round 4: Investing in Future Potential

Pick: #121 Overall

Selection: Jayden Reed, WR, Michigan State (projected)

While the Bengals have a strong receiving core, adding depth and future potential at wide receiver is always a wise move. Reed displays impressive speed and route-running ability, making him a potential slot receiver or a valuable contributor on special teams.

Round 5: Addressing Special Teams Needs

Pick: #163 Overall

Selection: Jake Moody, K, Michigan (projected)

Addressing the kicking game is crucial. Moody's strong leg and accuracy make him an ideal candidate to compete for the starting kicker role. Consistency in field goals and extra points can make a significant difference in close games.

Round 6: Finding a Late-Round Gem

Pick: #205 Overall

Selection: Matthew Bergeron, OG, Syracuse (projected)

Selecting another offensive lineman late in the draft adds depth and competition. Bergeron's strength and run blocking could make him a valuable backup, potentially developing into a starter in the future.

Round 7: A Developmental Project

Pick: #247 Overall

Selection: Jaren Hall, QB, BYU (projected)

Drafting a quarterback in the seventh round is a low-risk, high-reward strategy. Hall offers good arm talent and mobility, providing valuable depth at the position and serving as a potential developmental project.

Factors Affecting the Draft

Several factors could significantly impact the Bengals' draft strategy in 2025:

• Free Agency: The Bengals' free agency moves will greatly affect their needs. Re-signing key players could reduce the need to draft certain positions.
• Player Development: The progress of current players will play a major role in determining the team’s priorities. Unexpected leaps in performance could decrease the need to draft certain positions.
• Injuries: Injuries throughout the 2024 season could shift the focus to specific positions requiring immediate reinforcement.
• Coaching Changes: Potential coaching changes could influence the type of players the Bengals target.

Conclusion: Building a Dynasty in Cincinnati

The Bengals' success is built upon a foundation of young talent and smart drafting. This mock draft showcases a potential strategy for continuing that success, focusing on reinforcing the offensive line, improving defensive depth, and adding valuable special teams players. While this is only a projection, it highlights the importance of long-term planning and strategic drafting in building a sustainable championship contender. Remember that unforeseen circumstances will inevitably impact these predictions. The true test will be how the Bengals adapt to those unforeseen situations and continue their climb towards future Super Bowl contention. The journey continues, and the 2025 NFL Draft could be another key step in building a Bengals dynasty.