Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals had a disappointing season in 2024, barely missing out on the playoffs.
The offense can’t really be blamed though, as Burrow and his impressive group of weapons performed admirably. The defense struggled though, and the team still needs to upgrade the unit before the 2025 season kicks off.
In free agency, the team added defensive lineman T.J. Slaton, linebacker Oren Burks, and offensive lineman Lucas Patrick. Now, the team will look to add another impact starter, preferably on defense, with the No. 17 pick in the draft.
Today, though, we’re going to identify players the Bengals should NOT target with their top pick.
Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
Emeka Egbuka is a talented wide receiver who excelled at Ohio State just a short drive away from Cincinnati.
The receiver earns high marks for his route-running, sure hands, and an ability to get open over the middle of the field. Egbuka crossed the 1,000-yard mark in 2024 and helped the Buckeyes win the national title.
The Bengals would definitely be interested if Egbuka was available at No. 17. However, with Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase getting massive extensions, receiver is not a position the Bengals should worry about in the first round. There will be solid options later in the draft.
Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri
Like Egbuka, Luther Burden III is a talented receiver prospect who most teams will be impressed by.
Burden is a talented possession receiver who makes plays with the ball in his hands. The Missouri product eclipsed 1,000 yards in 2023, but took a step back in 2024 due to an overall worse offense at Missouri.
There are concerns about Burden’s potential character issues that could affect his draft status. The Bengals have already had off-field problems with one receiver, and no more drama needs to be added to the roster.
Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
Colston Loveland is another talented pass-catcher who will likely make an immediate impact at the NFL level.
Tight end would’ve been a bigger need for the Bengals, but Mike Gesicki was re-signed. Gesicki was serviceable in 2024, and the team could do worse than rolling with the veteran in 2025.
Loveland will undoubtedly interest Zac Taylor, though. The Michigan product is capable of playing as an in-line tight end or as a slot receiver. It’s an interesting option, but again, the Bengals need to be all about defense in the first round.
Tyler Booker, G, Alabama
Sticking on offense, Tyler Booker is a talented guard who is contention to be the best at his position in this class.
Booker really excells as a run blocker, using his massive frame to push weaker offensive lineman around and hold his ground against speed-rushers. However, the Alabama product figures to fit in best in a zone or power scheme, and not a pass-happy attack like the Bengals run.
The Bengals definitely do need a guard, but the team should look for one in the second or third rounds. Tate Ratledge and Jonah Savaiinaea are some names the team should keep in mind.
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