Cincinnati Bengals 5-Round Post-Combine 2025 NFL Mock Draft

Cincinnati Bengals 5-Round Post-Combine 2025 NFL Mock Draft

 

The Cincinnati Bengals enter the 2025 NFL Draft with a solid core, including a top-tier quarterback in Joe Burrow and a high-powered offense led by wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. However, the team still has areas to improve on both sides of the ball. The following mock draft aims to address key weaknesses, including the offensive line, defensive line, and depth in the secondary.

Round 1, Pick 24: OT Olu Fashanu, Penn State

The Bengals’ offensive line has shown improvement, but consistency remains a concern, especially in protecting Joe Burrow’s blindside. After the combine, Olu Fashanu, a 6-foot-6, 320-pound offensive tackle from Penn State, has firmly established himself as one of the top tackles in the 2025 draft class. With elite athleticism, quick footwork, and the ability to dominate in both the run and pass game, Fashanu would be a significant upgrade at left tackle. His blend of power and technique could help solidify Burrow’s protection for years to come.

Fashanu’s combine numbers only boosted his stock as a potential first-round pick, and with the Bengals picking at 24th overall, he could be the perfect selection to address a position of need. A year of refining his skills at Penn State has prepared him to step in immediately as a starter, and his presence on the line would greatly improve the offense’s stability.

Round 2, Pick 56: DL Jared Verse, Florida State

Cincinnati’s defense, while strong, has struggled to apply consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The Bengals could use an explosive pass rusher, and Jared Verse from Florida State could be an immediate contributor to their defensive line rotation. At 6-foot-4 and 265 pounds, Verse boasts excellent burst and an impressive mix of power and speed off the edge. He dominated during the 2024 season, showcasing his ability to disrupt passing plays, and his performance at the combine reinforced his status as one of the top pass-rushing prospects in the draft.

Verse’s combination of athleticism and relentless motor makes him a great fit for the Bengals’ defensive scheme, which emphasizes aggressive pass rushing. Pairing him with standout defensive end Trey Hendrickson could give Cincinnati a dynamic duo that can wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks, further strengthening their already solid defense.

Round 3, Pick 88: CB Kalen King, Penn State

The Bengals have a solid starting cornerback duo in Chidobe Awuzie and Cam Taylor-Britt, but depth in the secondary is still an area of concern, especially given the increasing importance of pass defense in today’s NFL. Kalen King, a talented cornerback from Penn State, could provide much-needed depth and competition at the position. King stood out at the combine with impressive speed and agility drills, and his ability to cover a variety of receivers makes him a great fit in Cincinnati’s defense.

King’s potential as a future starter is high, and his ball skills and instinctive playmaking ability are strong traits that could help him develop into a key contributor for the Bengals’ defense. If selected, King would be a great addition to the secondary, offering both depth and potential as a future starting cornerback.

Round 4, Pick 122: WR Xavier Worthy, Texas

Although the Bengals boast one of the most dynamic wide receiver corps in the NFL, depth at the position is crucial for any successful team, especially as the league moves to a more pass-heavy game. Xavier Worthy from Texas could provide an explosive and dynamic weapon to the receiving group. Known for his speed, separation ability, and knack for making big plays, Worthy would give Joe Burrow another deep threat to stretch the field.

Worthy’s combine performance highlighted his speed and agility, making him an intriguing pick in the fourth round. While his frame (6-foot, 180 pounds) may limit his ability to be an every-down receiver, his playmaking ability would make him a valuable asset in the Bengals’ offense as a rotational piece or situational deep threat.

Round 5, Pick 155: S Trey Moore, Oklahoma

Safety is an area where the Bengals could add some depth, particularly behind starters Jessie Bates III and Dax Hill. Trey Moore from Oklahoma could be a strong late-round pick to develop into a solid rotational piece or even a future starter. Moore displayed excellent range and instincts at the combine, coupled with a physical style of play that would fit well in Cincinnati’s defense.

Moore’s ability to read the quarterback, cover ground quickly, and finish tackles makes him a potential sleeper in this draft class. While he may not step in as an immediate starter, Moore has the tools to contribute in a reserve role and could eventually push for significant playing time as he develops. His selection would add crucial depth to the Bengals’ secondary and give them an emerging talent to develop over the coming years.

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Conclusion

The Bengals’ 2025 post-combine mock draft aims to address both immediate needs and long-term investments in key positions. With a focus on strengthening the offensive line, enhancing the pass rush, and adding depth in the secondary and at wide receiver, this draft could provide the team with the necessary pieces to make another deep playoff run. If these picks pan out, Cincinnati could position themselves for sustained success in the AFC, with a well-rounded roster that complements their star quarterback.