The Cincinnati Bengals may not have immediate impact in their draft class, but they found some pieces that could compete against the Pittsburgh Steelers for years to come.
If you’re looking for the flashiest 2024 NFL Draft class, the Cincinnati Bengals aren’t the direction to look in.
The Bengals addressed needs, but they looked for upside rather than players who can immediately contribute in 2024.
Here’s a look at their draft class from over the weekend:
Round 1 (No. 18): OT Amarius Mims, Georgia
Round 2 (No. 49): DL Kris Jenkins, Michigan
Round 3 (No. 80): WR Jermaine Burton, Alabama
Round 3 (No. 97): DL McKinnley Jackson, Texas A&M
Round 4 (No. 115): TE Erick All, Iowa
Round 5 (No. 149): CB Josh Newton, TCU
Round 6 (No. 194): TE Tanner McLachlan, Arizona
Round 6 (No. 214): Edge Cedric Johnson, Ole Miss
Round 7 (No. 224): S Daijahn Anthony, Ole Miss
Round 7 (No. 237): IOL Matt Lee, Miami
Amarius Mims was a strong selection in the first round, but his inexperience could lead to him starting the year on the bench before making his way into games. The same can be said for third-round receiver Jermaine Burton.
If Tee Higgins’ future is no longer with the Bengals after the 2024 season, that could open up the opportunity for Burton to take his spot. However, Higgins is under the franchise tag this season, and while he still plays for Cincinnati, he’ll block Burton’s path to the lineup.
Nearly every player taken helps the Bengals’ depth, but these players aren’t seen as automatic hits, and that should alleviate some pressure that Pittsburgh Steelers fans may have about their rival.