2009 NFL Draft: Cincinnati Bengals Recap

One has to go back to 2003 (Carson Palmer, Eric Steinbach, and Kelley Washington) or 1998 (Takeo Spikes and Brian Simmons) to find an NFL Draft which has generated the day after buzz on the Bengals 2009 draft, and even then I do not think it compares

(Remember we are talking about day after excitement).  

In an offseason of negativity and free agent departures, the Bengals went through the draft with the patience to let the draft come to them and selected top talents while also filling their top needs.

One can make the argument that no team drafted more sheer talent in the 2009 draft. 

That said, it is not a draft class without substantial risk.  After all, there is a reason why Andre Smith fell to No. 6 (immaturity/weight), Rey Maualuga fell to round two (maturity/freelancing), Michael Johnson a top 10 talent in round three (inconsistent effort), and Chase Coffman to late in round three (slow, poor blocker, injury). 

I don't say this to be negative, but it is important to say this collection of talent is very much a high risk/high reward draft.

Pick by Pick breakdown:

1. OT Andre Smith, Alabama - Arguably the most talented offensive lineman in the draft, and a dominating run blocker who may or may not be athletic enough to play left tackle. 

At a minimum, he is the team's starting right tackle and should provide an immediate boost to a stagnant ground attack.  Biggest concern is whether offensive line coach Paul Alexander can get the most out of him.

2. MLB Rey Maualuga, USC - A big hitting intimidator, Maualuga is the type of player Marvin Lewis has always wanted in the middle of his defense. 

Needs to stay out of trouble and stick to the scheme. Tremendous talent whom the team was thrilled to see fall to them in round two.

3a. DE Michael Johnson, Georgia Tech- Arguably most physically gifted defensive end in the draft, Johnson falls due to inconsistent effort and questionable desire. 

Fills a major need, but he will be a project for Mike Zimmer and D-Line coach Jay Hayes. 

Even if Johnson is only able to be a situational pass rusher, he could make a big difference for the defense.  His potential is well worth the risk of a third round pick. 

3b.TE Chase Coffman, Missouri - Excellent route runner with the best hands of any tight end in the draft.  Has the talent to be what everyone expected out of Ben Utecht last year. 

Despite the positives, he is far from a sure thing as he is slow and a poor blocker, which is generally not a good combination for a tight end.

4. C Jonathan Luigs, Arkansas- He is not the physical mauler that Max Unger or Eric Wood are, and the concerns with how he will deal with the nose tackles of the AFC North are legitimate.

But, he is also the fifth and final member of a highly touted center class and is known for his athleticism and high football IQ.  A great value in round four who will challenge for the starting job.

5. P Kevin Huber, Cincinnati - Best punter in the draft. 

As a left footer his kicks have a unique spin which has caused problems for returners.  Also, is known for his ability to change fields and pin the ball deep.

6a. CB Morgan Trent, Michigan - Has good size/speed combination and good coverage instincts.  Has the tools you look for in a developmental type.

Should battle for the dime job.

6b. RB Bernard Scott, Abilene-Christian - Like Jason Shirley last year, he is the team's gratuitous character risk who will garner far too much discussion from the media. 

Despite his troubled past, he is the burst the team lacks in the backfield and was tremendously productive at Abilene. 

Has a lot of potential, but needs to keep his nose clean.

7a. FB Fui Vakapuna, BYU- The team was known to be interested in Vakapuna after his excellent pro day workout. 

Vakapuna is a big and strong runner who is making the transition to fullback. 

Shows good power, receiving skills, and a willingness to block.

7b. DT Clinton McDonald, Memphis - A nice sleeper pick. 

McDonald is an athletic and undersized defensive tackle with a knack for penetration. 

Had seven sacks as senior.  Good character guy.

7c. WR Freddie Brown, Utah - One of the stars of the Utes upset over Alabama with 12 catches and 125 yards. 

Has good size and is a possession receiver who is willing to make the tough catches over the middle. 

Will face an uphill battle making the roster.

Overall Grade: A- (but with a High Risk/High Reward asterisk) 

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