Bengals predicted by NFC South scout to select Ohio State star DB with 10th pick

Bengals predicted by NFC South scout to select Ohio State star DB with 10th pick originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Cincinnati Bengals own the 10th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, and there is a very clear direction to take with this pick: defense.

Whether it's a safety, cornerback, linebacker, defensive tackle, or an edge rusher, the Bengals need to go defense. At 10th overall, there should be some intriguing options available, though one player stands out as the ideal pick.

ESPN's Matt Miller shared that an NFC South scout predicted the Bengals would select Ohio State's Caleb Downs with this pick. This prediction would give Cincinnati one of the best players in the draft without having to move up.

Bengals predicted to draft Caleb Downs by NFC South scout

"We'll take Caleb Downs," this NFC South scout said. "This might not be the biggest need, and safety isn't a premium position, but Downs is a premium player who is a culture-setting winner with the football IQ, work ethic, playmaking mentality, and drive to be great."

The Bengals need to add some tone-setters to the defensive side of the ball after losing Trey Hendrickson in free agency, and Downs could help change the vibe of the defense.

Cincinnati's defense was a major issue last season, and it was holding a strong offense back from making the playoffs. Adding Downs, along with their free agent additions of Bryan Cook, Boye Mafe, and , the Bengals should be a lot better.