2008 Cincinnati Bengals Team Needs

Defensive End: Justin Smith bolted for free agency over to San Francisco, which means the Bengals need to find a rush end to lineup opposite Robert Geathers.  Geathers is real strong and athletic, but he will not win any sack titles anytime soon.  The Bengals have not generated a strong pass rush in several years, and under coach Marvin Lewis, Cincinnati does not like to resort to blitzing to compensate for a lack of heat on the quarterback. Therefore, they will look to the draft to bring in some players that can consistently pressure the pocket.

Wide Receiver: The Bengals just cut Chis Henry for his off-the-field issues.  Meanwhile, Chad Johnson seems to have issues about remaining in Cincinnati.  Coach Lewis insists that they will not trade Johnson.  T.J. Houshmandzadeh is an emerging talent in this league, but a big part of his success is due to the attention that Johnson demands.  Even though the Bengals don’t seem to make a habit of drafting wideouts, this year it would not be a bad idea to bring in some young character receivers.

Defensive Tackle: The Bengals’ run defense has been virtually non-existent for the last decade.  Consequently, Cincinnati must find some legitimate playmakers to anchor their defensive line.  Domata Peko is a rising star, but the Bengals clearly lack depth and talent at the position.

Center: Eric Ghiaciuc is undersized and has struggled to stay healthy.  The Bengals have a potent offense, but they have had difficulty establishing success running up the middle.  Look for Cincinnati to select a big body at center via the draft.

Draft Candidates: DE Vernon Gholston, Ohio State, DE Darrell Robertson, Georgia Tech, WR Donnie Avery, Houston, WR Jordy Nelson, Kansas State, DT Marcus Harrison, Arkansas, DT DeMario Pressley, C Mike Pollak, Arizona State, C Steve Justice, Wake Forest