46. Lamar Jackson, QB, Louisville – The Bengals were hoping an offensive tackle like Kolton Miller from UCLA or a center like Billy Price from Ohio State fell this far, but they didn't. The Bengals still like the depth on the offensive line, but Jackson is the highest rated player on their board. You're probably wondering if Jackson could fall this far in real life? I don't think so, but stranger things have happened. This should be a dream scenario for the Bengals.
Even if you don't believe in Jackson, you should be able to admit his ceiling is sky high. He is the same exact size as Dalton – their both 6'2" tall and 216 pounds. I've always wondered what it would've been like to watch a focused Michael Vick who enjoyed watching film – we may see it with Jackson. Jackson gives the Bengals a weapon who could be a gadget player as a rookie – think Mohamed Sanu – and he can learn and develop behind Dalton in 2018.
77. Frank Ragnow, C, Arkansas – Ragnow is the first of multiple offensive linemen taken by the Bengals. He could be a day one starter at center. Ragnow has good size and power. The Bengals offensive line gets better with this pick. I wouldn't be shocked if he beat out Russell Bodine for the starting job – assuming the Bengals re-sign Bodine and let Ragnow compete to start. If the Bengals stick with Bodine, Ragnow has experience at guard. His versatility is appealing for a Bengals team desperate for an upgrade.
100. Alex Cappa, OT, Humboldt State – Cappa has a mean streak that the Bengals offensive line has been missing. He has great size at 6'7" inches tall and 305 pounds. Cappa should be able to contribute as a rookie, even if that means playing guard. This Bengals team couldn't run block worth a lick last season – the thought of Cappa mauling opposing defenders, while Joe Mixon accelerates out of the backfield would be a beautiful thing.
112. Michael Gallup, WR, Colorado State – This is the second-straight mock draft where the Bengals land Gallup. He was productive at Colorado State hauling in 176 receptions for 2,690 yards and 21 touchdowns. He impressed at the Senior Bowl and fared well the the combine. The Bengals have plenty of question marks at wide receiver. They hedge their bet with guys like John Ross, Josh Malone and company by taking the best player on their board.
151. Shaquem Griffin, LB, Central Florida – The Bengals need speed at linebacker – Griffin brings that and more. He ran a 4.38 40-yard dash and would bring much needed athleticism to a defense that needs it. Griffin is small – 227 pounds and plenty of people will point out the fact that he only has one hand. He thrives despite his physical limitation and would have a real shot at making an impact on special teams as a rookie.
170. Durham Smythe, TE, Notre Dame – Smythe has great size at 6'5" and 257 pounds. He could help the Bengals in one key area – blocking. He would be a great addition as a run blocker. Tyler Kroft and C.J. Uzomah are both decent blockers, but it doesn't come as naturally to them. Smythe could be an extension of the offensive line and help give the Bengals the rushing attack they need to have success in 2018. He's also good in pass protection and could help their offense as a rookie.
187. Fred Warner, LB, Brigham Young – Warner gives the Bengals another fast, athletic linebacker who should be able to contribute on special teams as a rookie. The additions of James, Griffin and now Warner give the Bengals defense much-needed athleticism. Warner played in the slot some in college and could excel in coverage with time at the NFL level. Adding a special teamer who has potential to contribute in the future makes sense at this point in the draft.
249. Rashaan Gaulden, CB, Tennessee – The Bengals are shocked to have Gaulden fall this far. He's projected to be drafted in round four according to most analysts. Instead, the Bengals get a corner who could slide in and be their nickel of the future. Darqueze Dennard is a free agent after the 2018 season and Adam Jones is in the final year of his deal. Gaulden could play a year of special teams and learn behind both players, before contributing on defense in 2019. Watch some of Gaulden's combine highlights below.