Bengals projected to draft versatile Clemson CB in Round 2 of NFL Draft originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Cincinnati Bengals didn't make any picks on night one of the 2026 NFL Draft thanks to their trade for Dexter Lawrence with the New York Giants.
But, they will be making a pick on Day 2 of the draft, with the 41st overall selection, nine picks into the second round, as their first selection in this year's draft.
ESPN's Ben Solak, after the players went off the board in Round 1, is projecting the Bengals will draft a Clemson defensive back in Avieon Terrell to give Al Golden's defense a versatile cornerback to pair with Dax Hill and DJ Turner II.
"CB Avieon Terrell to the Bengals. Where it could happen: No. 41," Solak projects. "... I could linebacker or safety in Round 2, but Terrell is one of the best players left and a great fit for the Bengals."
Cincinnati needs to add more help to the defensive side of the ball, especially in the defensive backfield. While they have some solid players, depth and more starting options are needed.
Safety is one position to keep an eye on, with Emmanuel McNeill-Warren falling out of Round 1. He would be a fun pickup, but in this case, Solak has the Bengals taking Terrell with their second-round pick.
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With the Bengals eyeing defensive back help, adding the versatile Terrell, who can play either inside or outside cornerback, would make a ton of sense.
Hill can play inside or outside as well, so adding Terrell would allow the Bengals to have options with their cornerback room when it comes to who's playing inside or outside.
Golden's defense needs to be a lot better this year, so expect defense to be the pick in Round 2. Terrell, who had five forced fumbles this past season for Clemson, is a physical DB who has solid athleticism despite suspect testing, and would be a great pick at No. 41.
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