The Cincinnati Bengals hold the 17th overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Despite a late-season surge led by Joe Burrow and the offense, they failed to make the playoffs. Their quiet approach in free agency has left noticeable holes on the defensive side of the ball.
Compounding the issue is the unresolved contract situation with edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, which could signal his departure from the team. NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah predicts the Bengals will use the 17th pick to draft Hendrickson’s potential replacement.
Jeremiah has Cincinnati selecting Donovan Ezeiruaku, an edge rusher from Boston College. He backs up his projection by noting Ezeiruaku’s pass-rushing skills and his resemblance to Hendrickson in play style, especially as Hendrickson’s future with the team remains uncertain.
Ezeiruaku had an outstanding senior season, leading the ACC with 16.5 sacks and 21 tackles for loss. While Boston College only managed seven wins, his individual performance stood out — production the Bengals could certainly use.
Jeremiah doesn’t anticipate a trade-up by Cincinnati, instead recommending they make the most of their draft capital to build a deeper and more competitive roster.
Cincinnati’s primary draft priorities should be strengthening the defense and improving the offensive line. This pick aligns with those goals. Last year, they used a first-round pick on wide receiver Jermaine Burton, who struggled, forcing the team to commit major contracts to Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Those deals have tightened their cap flexibility in free agency.
As talks with Hendrickson continue, a trade remains a possibility — one the Bengals should consider executing during the draft. By acquiring multiple defensive prospects, they could bolster the unit quickly. Ezeiruaku could be a key piece in that rebuild.
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