Cincinnati Bengals: Second round of NFL Draft shapes up nicely

The first round of the NFL Draft played out well for the Cincinnati Bengals going into their first pick on Day 2.

A run on offensive players — while Cincinnati did not have a first-round selection — left several top defensive prospects on the board. The Bengals sit in the ninth position of the second round, picking at No. 41 overall, and will have flexibility to take the best player available or potentially even trade back and still be able to get a prospect on their board.

Had the Bengals not traded their 10th pick to the New York Giants, they might have been able to land Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, who went 11th to the Cowboys, or Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr., who went No. 15 to the Cardinals. However, Dallas traded up for Downs and likely would have jumped Cincinnati in that scenario. New York selected Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa among the 19 players on that side of the ball that went off the board in Round 1.

Here's a look at some of the best players available that might fit the Bengals’ needs:

Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo

The Bengals don’t usually go with small-school players this high, but McNeil-Warren was the No. 15 prospect on NFL.com’s board. He is a tall, long safety who brings a lot of energy and produced a lot of big hits. He would fit nicely into Cincinnati’s defense if his college production translates to the NFL.

Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee

There’s a reason McCoy is still available, as many teams might have dropped him off their boards completely with news he could need another knee surgery after missing the entire 2025 season due to an ACL tear. McCoy had an outstanding 2024 season and could be worth the risk for a Bengals team that already has Dax Hill and DJ Turner but might be looking for a replacement in 2027.

Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee

Hood would be a safer pick, but lacks some of the physical traits the Bengals seem to prefer in their corners at just 5-foot-11. He’s a standout in man coverage and has been praised for his physical play, long arms and ability to disrupt routes, so he would still be a good fit on Day 2.