Bengals' mock trade with Jets shows one possible NFL draft path

On the topic of the Cincinnati Bengals moving out of the No. 10 spot in the upcoming draft, the actual size of the jump could hinge on just how desperate the other team is.

On paper, a team is probably hunting for a quarterback if it’s considering giving up what would be required to climb the order in the opening round.

For the Bengals, that might mean paying special attention if someone like the New York Jets gives them a ring.

ESPN’s Bill Barnwell recently explored this idea, suggesting that the Bengals could be happy to move all the way down to No. 16:

“…The Bengals aren't looking for a receiver, but it stands to reason that the Dolphins and Rams would be, which could leave the Jets without their preferred target at No. 16. The Bengals need as much cost-controlled talent as possible given the cost of the big three in their passing game, so adding another premium pick early on Day 2 would be the right idea for Cincinnati.”

The full details:

Jets get: 1-10, 4-110

Bengals get: 1-16, 2-44

If a primary target like Caleb Downs is off the board, the Bengals might jump at the chance to add another top 50 selection for merely moving down a few spots in the opening round.

Make no mistake, dropping six spots is rough, but the Bengals could be content with how the board shapes up, then get an additional possible instant starter at that No. 44 slot.

While unlikely, the more shots the Bengals get to take at fixing the defense, the better.

This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Bengals' mock trade with Jets shows one possible NFL draft path