Bengals 7-round mock draft: protecting Burrow at all costs

Bengals round 5 and 6

This late in the draft, the Bengals’ focus has to shift on players that they can get the most value out of. An option like Thayer Munford makes this three picks along the offensive line, but his versatility and ability to wear multiple hats make him a valuable addition here. He won’t be contending to start as the other line picks earlier, but he can become a valuable depth piece along this line.

Munford can essentially serve as depth at every spot along the line minus center. He was a decent left tackle for Ohio State before kicking inside to guard last season to a mixed result. He has some consistency issues that will need to be sorted out if he ever wants to be more than a backup, but for a fifth-round pick, the team could do much worse.

One of the major questions surrounding the Bengals offseason is what the team will do with Jesse Bates, as the talented safety is set to hit free agency this offseason. If he isn’t retained, the team will have to sign a veteran to start or draft an option far earlier than this. Assuming he is retained though, adding some depth in the draft is still a good move.

Nick Grant is a developmental free safety prospect from Virginia that will need a lot of work if he ever wants to be more than a backup. He has a receiver and cornerback background which gives him an eye for the ball, but his average athleticism limits him there. As well, his tackling technique is horrible and will need to be worked on at the next level. That said, he is depth and a player that could develop into a decent reserve for this team in time.