Don’t worry, the Bengals finally get an offensive tackle
25. Cincinnati Bengals: Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa
Yes, Ja’Marr Chase was the correct pick for the Cincinnati Bengals this season. And yes, Riley Reiff has been a decent addition to their line this year. However, they cannot go into 2022 without making some changes, including adding another young offensive tackle.
Enter Trevor Penning from Northern Iowa. Listed at 6-foot-7 and 322-pounds, Penning already boasts an NFL body. He will need some work — and experience against elite talent — but he has a high ceiling and could grow alongside Joe Burrow. That could end up leading to the Bengals being a team to watch in the AFC for years to come.
26. Buffalo Bills: Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati
The Buffalo Bills were running away with the AFC East, or so it seemed. In recent weeks, the New England Patriots have not only caught them, but they’re now a half-game ahead of the Bills with an important Week 13 showdown on the slate.
Buffalo recently lost Tre’Davious White to an injury and his departure will surely hurt their defense as they hope to close out their pursuit of another East title. It will also show how good he really was for them.
Now in this mock, they decide to get some help for their star corner by taking Ahmad Gardner from Cincinnati. He should be a starter early in his career and will instantly improve the Bills secondary.