Instant analysis of Bengals picking Brian Parker in the sixth round

The Cincinnati Bengals continued a polarizing trip to the NFL draft in the sixth round at No. 189 by picking Duke offensive lineman Brian Parker.

Parker is the second serious shot the Bengals took at finding long-term offensive line help for Joe Burrow in this draft class.

Based on the pre-draft rumblings, Parker is one heck of a shot, too.

For example, Parker was the 126th prospect on PFF’s big board.

Lance Zierlein of NFL.com is one of a few analysts who project him to become an eventual starter, likely at center or guard.

“Tackle-to-center prospect with well-composed frame, good body control and sound technique,” Zierlein wrote. “Parker consistently centers his blocks and operates with inside hands/good grip strength. He gets to his landmarks under control as a move blocker, has average drive strength on gap-scheme blocks and constantly covers his target.”

A native of Cincinnati, Parker is a big 6’5” prospect who has started games at both tackle spots and was a multi-time Second-team All-ACC player.

This five-position versatility is something the Bengals will love, of course. But along with Connor Lew, it’s another chance at a starting center for the long term after Ted Karras. That, or perhaps a guard.

Grade: A

This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Instant analysis of Bengals picking Brian Parker in the sixth round