Todd McShay released his latest mock draft this week. For non-subscribers to the McShay Report like myself, you could only see the first-round draft selection.
In this mock, McShay had the Bengals selecting Ohio State safety Caleb Downs at pick 10. McShay said, “Downs falling to pick no. 10 would be a major win for a Bengals defense that’s lacking difference makers on all three levels.”
Another defensive back that has been linked to Cincinnati a lot lately is Mansoor Delane. In this mock draft, he had Delane going 9th overall to the Kansas City Chiefs. They are a team that traded Trent McDuffie to the Rams, and they could certainly be in the market for an addition at corner in the draft this year.
Even if Delane were to remain on the board, the Bengals should take Downs. He is my top-rated overall prospect in this draft class, regardless of position.
Caleb Downs is a leader on the field who can help out not just as a safety, but down in the box and in the slot. His football intelligence, leadership qualities, and talent on the football field make him an ideal target if he falls to pick 10.
The Bengals added Bryan Cook in free agency at the safety position, but that shouldn’t keep them from taking the best player in the draft. He can play alongside Cook and even alongside Jordan Battle in three safety looks. Never pass up on a likely great player for a potentially good one in Jordan Battle.
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