It's April, which means it's finally draft month. We're starting to hit the homestretch. Final mock drafts will soon be coming up. We may also see more mocks that go through the entire draft, like a recent one over at Sporting News from Vinnie Iyer.
Here, we'll take a look at the picks Iyer made for the Cincinnati Bengals in what could be a potential path with just a few weeks left before the draft begins on April 24.
No. 17 - James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee
"The Bengals still might move Trey Hendrickson and already lost Sam Hubbard to retirement. Pearce would be a fine pass-rush piece for new defensive coordinator Al Golden."
Pearce has potential, but he's also one of the most polarizing prospects in this class. Nonetheless, the need for edge help is crystal clear in Cincinnati.
No. 49 - Shemar Turner, DT, Texas A&M
"The Bengals need to beef up their depth behind re-signed B.J. Hill, and Turner can maintain their run-stopping theme."
Shemar Stewart isn't the only good prospect named Shemar from Texas A&M. Turner was a converted edge rusher that can now add value at the 3-tech position, a spot where the Bengals really need depth.
No. 81 - Jonah Savaiinaea, G/OT, Arizona
"The Bengals have had their eye on this nice-sized versatile prospect to give them depth and contingency across four positions."
Has played both positions but is likely better suited for guard. Good for the Bengals because they need plenty of help on the inside.
No. 119 - Oronde Gadsden II, TE, Syracuse
Needs to develop more ability to beat defenses from the slot, but the production is there with almost 1,000 yards and seven touchdowns in 2024 for Syracuse.
No. 153 - Luke Kandra, G, Cincinnati
Developmental option that was First Team All-Big 12 in 2024 after starting 12 games and being a team captain for the Bearcats.
No. 193 - Antwane Wells Jr., WR, Ole Miss
Needs to clean up his drops after having trouble while at Ole Miss but did have a strong week at the Shrine Bowl and provides good size and strength to develop into a solid depth piece.
This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Analyzing Bengals' picks in new 7-round NFL mock draft
