Going into the NFL Draft, the Cincinnati Bengals don’t have to want much in the way of offensive weapons. Between Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Joe Burrow, the ominous, officious offense of Ohio seems to have shifted focus to the opposite side of the ball. Recently, we posted how the Bengals arguably have the greatest draft class of the last 20 years via the likes of Burrow, Higgins, and Chase. Not to be outshined, the ball club has a promising defense headed by the likes of Germaine Pratt and Logan Wilson.
The 2023 NFL Draft
During the pivotal first three picks of the 2023 NFL Draft, the Bengals opted to pick three weapons to bolster their defense. More specifically, the ball club looked to add a pass rusher, calibrate their secondary, and supplement what they assembled in 2020. The Bengals have signed all 8 of their draft picks in the 2023 NFL Draft. Keeping things balanced by signing four offensive, three defensive, and one punter. Trying to add a young core and help key issues, the Bengals seem very happy with their selections.
Myles Murphy DE
The former Clemson Tiger is a two-time All-American. Recording 139 tackles, 17.5 sacks, and six forced fumbles in his 3-year career. Adding a young edge rusher with speed is what the Bengals needed, and he should be a great addition to this team.
Former Clemson DE Myles Murphy (99) -Winslow Townson/USA TODAY Sports
Grade: A
DJ Turner
With the addition of Myles Murphy, the Bengals proved this defensive move by also drafting Michigan Wolverines cornerback DJ Turner in the 2023 NFL Draft. The two-time all-Big Ten corner Turner ran a 4.26 on the 40-yard dash earlier this year at the NFL Combine. Turner’s cat-like quickness ranked as the fourth-fastest speed at the showcase of the draft hopefuls since 2003.
Former Michigan CB DJ Turner (20) – Rich Graessle/Getty Images
Grade: B
Andrei Iosivas
The Bengals ended the NFL Draft by also adding a bit more to their offense. In the sixth round of the draft, the Cincinnati Bengals went after Princeton wide receiver Andrei Iosivas. The Bengals added the 6’3, 212-pound wideout who will join one of the best receiver cores in the league to learn under. More notably, Tee Higgins, who is also a tall wideout, comes in at 6’4 and 220 pounds.
Former Princeton WR Andrei Iosivas (88) – Princeton Athletics
Grade: C
Charlie Jones
The Bengals drafted Purdue wide receiver Charlie Jones in the fourth round of the NFL Draft. Jones impressed in his short stay with the Boilermakers, landing 110 receptions, 1,361 yards, and 12 touchdowns. At the NFL Combine, Jones ran a 4.43 in the 40-yard dash.
Former Purdue WR Charlie Jones (15) – Gregory Fisher/Getty Images
Jordan Battle S
The Bengals needed help in the safety department, and Battle is a great fit to contribute to this team. A 4-year veteran at Alabama, Battle was 4th in total tackles in the 2022 season and has had nothing but praise from his coaching staff. Clearly, Cincinnati is happy with its decision.
Grade: B+
Chase Brown RB
Brown was 4th in total rushing yards with 1,643 in 2022 and averaged 5.3 ypc. 3-time All-Big Ten and a 2022 Doak Walker award finalist, landing him in the 5th round is a great pick. Another team need that was added, Brown should make an impact in his rookie season.
Grade: B+
Brad Robbins P
Trying to solve another issue in special teams, the Bengals found a solution in the former Wolverine. With Kevin Huber leaving after 14 years, Brad Robbins is hoped to be the team’s new lead man.
Grade: B
DJ Ivey CB
A smart and athletic corner, the Bengals land Ivey as their final pick in the draft. An experienced player with a great build, you can’t go wrong adding any pieces that can help you in the future.
Grade: C+
Conclusion
Cincinnati has gained value everywhere in this draft by addressing issues and adding experienced athletic players. I think the Bengal’s front office picked up everyone that they had hoped for, and I think they’re happy with their draft day.
