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Brandon Murchison's 2019 NFL Draft team previews moves on to the Cincinnati Bengals, a team that could be on the verge of a rebuild after finally replacing Marvin Lewis. Is Andy Dalton next to go? What impact will the rookies drafted have on the fantasy values of this team?
The Cincinnati Bengals are on the verge of a full-on rebuild beginning in 2019. New HC Zac Taylor inherits a team that is a mix of talented young players with aging veterans needing to be replaced. One of which is Andy Dalton. Dalton, who has flashed potential over the years, is in dire need of a change of scenery. His passing has regressed in each of the last three seasons, and with the team expected to become more balanced in 2019, Dalton could once again be a fantasy afterthought.
The remainder of the offense has some intrigue. Joe Mixon, if he can stay healthy, is on the verge of fantasy stardom. He brings a mix of production both on the ground and through the air. Making him a solid pick as an RB1 at the end of the first round or early in the second. At receiver, you have the reliable A.J. Green, who you know is a lock for 1,000 yards and close to double-digit scores. But the emergence of Tyler Boyd is what helped carry some fantasy owners to titles in 2018. His value is directly tied to Green being on the field as he did not fair well facing opposing defenses top corners during his time as the WR1. If Green plays the full 16 games, Boyd is back in play as a low-end WR2.
Heading into the draft, the Bengals have holes in a number of areas. They are in the market for a quarterback and could go that route. But outside of that, the offensive line is an issue that needs to be resolved. As well as pieces and depth on the defensive side of the ball.
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Top Three Projected Selections
First Round- Dwayne Haskins, QB Ohio State (11th overall)
Second Round- Greg Little, OT Ole Miss (42nd)
Third Round- Te'Von Conley, LB Notre Dame (72nd)
Remaining Picks
Fourth Round- 110th
Fifth Round- 149th
Sixth Round-183rd, 198th, 210th, 211th, 213th
Seventh Round- 223rd
Needs Analysis
Although there has not been a lot of talk about the Bengals being in the market at quarterback, selecting a player the caliber of Dwayne Haskins may be hard to pass on at this pick. He is big, has an explosive arm, and can make most of the throws on the field. That type of player is typically coveted by young offensive minds, which Taylor is. This could be the perfect scenario for Haskins landing here as he gets to sit and learn for a season. Then he will have a strong supporting cast around him that he can lean on to make plays. You could make the case for Haskins as the top dynasty QB in this years draft, but with the hype being squarely on Kyler Murray, Haskins will slip. He will be there for the taking in the second round of rookie drafts, and if you are looking to find a young QB to replace a Tom Brady or aging QB, Haskins is your guy.
Greg Little is your prototypical prospect at tackle. He has the size, strength, and quickness that is coveted at the position. He thrives more in a zone blocking scheme than in a physical running attack but can adjust to any style. His athletic ability prevents him from being limited by coaching styles. His selection can add even more value to Joe Mixon's potential as a runner in 2019 and beyond.
Te'Von Conley fills a need at linebacker for the Bengals. He is a good but not great player that is slightly undersized but rarely is out of position and is a sound tackler. He doesn't take many chances as his instincts keep him involved in most plays on the field. His great transition quickness allows him to get sideline to sideline easily. He won't be the type of player that will help get the Bengals defense over the top as one of the better units in the league. But he is a talented player that will be a key contributor in defensive rotations.
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