The Cincinnati Bengals haven’t used a first-round pick on a defensive lineman since 2001 when they selected Justin Smith fourth overall.
For some, the time to end the drought is right now.
The Athletic’s Dane Brugler offers one such case, saying the Bengals should look to add Northwestern defensive lineman Adetomiwa Adebawore in the opening round:
There’s been everything to like about Adebawore throughout the pre-draft process. He’s the freak of athletic freaks at three-technique tackle, even more so than Pitt’s Calijah Kancey. This is not the best board at 28 for the Bengals with the top two tight ends plus the top corners and edge rushers all taken. Going for Gibbs would be wildly aggressive here but an intriguing conversation.
It’s an appealing case and a similar reasoning to why we’ve argued the team should consider Pittsburgh’s Calijah Kancey if he’s there, too. A pass-rushing specialist to pair with B.J. Hill next to DJ Reader would work wonders for the unit.
This could very well be what ends up happening too. The 2023 class is very deep at spots like tight end, so the Bengals could easily add a defensive lineman and address tight end, cornerback and others in later rounds.
Rest assured Brugler’s suggestion is just one of many scenarios under consideration at Paycor Stadium right now.
