ESPN's Todd McShay has released his second version of his NFL Mock Draft before with the Cincinnati Bengals selecting tight end Jermaine Gresham out of Oklahoma with the 21st overall pick. He is arguably the top tight end in this year's draft class and is expected to be a first-round pick, whether the Bengals decide to select him or not.
With all of the mock drafts across the internet, many NFL experts and analysts seem to believe the Bengals need to use their first-round pick on a tight end. A few weeks ago, ESPN's Mel Kiper released the first version of his NFL Mock Draft with Cincinnati selecting Aaron Hernandez out of Florida. However, Gresham's stock has risen over the last couple of weeks with the NFL Combine set to begin for tight ends on February 27.
The tight end position is an area the Bengals have struggled with over the last couple of years. Last season, Reggie Kelly ruptured his Achilles tendon during training camp and was missed the entire season. Chase Coffman—who was selected in the third round of last year’s draft after finishing his three-year career at Missouri with 156 receptions for 1,664 yards and 20 touchdowns—was inactive for 12 games before being placed on season-ending injured reserve. With all of the high expectations for Coffman that will be even higher in 2010, he will not be the type of impact player the Bengals want him to be without improving his blocking skills during the offseason.
If Cincinnati does end up selecting Gresham with the 21st pick, they will be adding a tight end capable of helping Carson Palmer in the passing game. From 2007-08, he finished with 103 receptions for 1,468 yards 25 touchdowns.
It’s no secret the Bengals need to figure out a way to improve their passing game after finishing 26th last season. Laveranues Coles and Andre Caldwell need to bounce back after struggling for most of 2009. Not to mention the team needs to adjust to life without their deep threat in Chris Henry—who passed away in December.
Gresham has the potential to make an immediate impact as a rookie pending last year’s knee injury doesn’t become a factor. And to think if Coffman finds a way to become effective in the Bengals’ offense, this team may end up having a solid group of tight ends in 2010—which they haven’t had in quite some time.
Post a Comment