The Cincinnati Bengals made some interesting picks in the 2023 NFL draft. In the first round, they selected Clemson defensive end Myles Murphy, who was ranked as one of the best pass rushers in the entire draft. (CBS Sports) Murphy is expected to make an immediate impact on the Bengals defense.
In the third round, the Bengals took safety Jordan Battle from Alabama. While many fans were expecting the Bengals to select a receiver or an offensive lineman, the team decided to address the safety position. (Bengals Wire) Some experts speculate that Battle could be a potential replacement for safety Jessie Bates in the future. (Yahoo Sports)
The Bengals also made a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs in the third round, sending their No. 95 pick in exchange for the Chiefs’ No. 104 and No. 217 picks. (Chiefs Wire) With the 104th pick, the Bengals selected offensive tackle Wanya Morris from Oklahoma.
Despite having a successful draft, the Bengals organization was also focused on securing quarterback Joe Burrow’s future with the team. They exercised his fifth-year option for the 2024 season, which was seen as a procedural step as negotiations for a long-term extension continue. (Cincinnati Bengals)
The Bengals’ draft strategy focused on addressing their key needs and building upon their free agency moves. They currently have five picks for the remaining four rounds of the draft. (Yahoo Sports) With their solid picks thus far, the Bengals are poised to make another run at the AFC North championship in the upcoming season.
