04-08-2025, 03:49 PM
(04-07-2025, 02:20 PM)ochocincos Wrote: James Rapien posted a video this morning defining players he think Bengals could target for defense in Rd 1.
Walter Nolen, DT Ole Miss - Bengals bringing him in for a visit, so maybe DT isn't off the table.
Jihaad Campbell - LB Alabama - Elite and would really elevate the LB unit. Not only off-ball LB but also as a pass rusher.
Derrick Harmon, DT Oregon - Another pass rushing DT Rapien likes other than Nolen.
Nick Emmanwori, SAF South Carolina - Rapien loves NE. He thinks his young age, great size, elite athleticism, and versatility should allow for Bengals to easily find a good role for him, even if it's not as deep safety 100% of the time. Bengals bringing him in for a pre-draft visit as well.
Malaki Starks, SAF Georgia - Deep, athletic safety, but maybe not in the mix over Emmanwori.
Jahdae Barron, CB Texas or Will Johnson, CB Michigan - Not expecting CB but these two guys could be great if they do.
Note - Rapien is thinking Bengals are not looking at DE in Rd 1 and will likely more look at on Day 2.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUB1-hzy2Oo
Nice thread and vid Ochocincos. Playmakers on Defense is where I agree most adamantly here. Nolen, Jihad, Harmon, Emmanwori, Starks
all fit the bill. I give the edge to Emmanwori though as we met with him and he would most likely play the most as a rookie which is what
you want in a first round pick. Immediate upgrade playmaker is Emmanwori. Nolen or Harmon would be backup 3-techs to help with the
pass rush, Jihad is coming off injury and we didn't meet with him as far as I know. Starks fits FS which is a monster need for us etc.
