The Cincinnati Bengals enter the NFL draft with a fascinating array of possibilities. With needs across the defense, their strategy in a deep seven-round haul could go in several exciting directions, setting the tone for their 2025 campaign.

A new seven-round mock draft from NFL.com’s Chad Reuter presents a particularly bold and controversial path for the Bengals. It starts with a high-risk, high-reward move in the first round that will have fans talking.

The mock has Cincinnati selecting cornerback Kris McCoy, a supremely talented player with a significant red flag: he missed the entire 2025 college season after suffering an ACL tear in January. The Bengals have shown a willingness to bet on elite talent, as they did with Ja'Marr Chase after his opt-out year. Cornerback is a clear need, especially for a starting nickel role and overall depth behind Dax Hill and DJ Turner, making McCoy a tantalizing but risky proposition.

Later in the mock, the Bengals execute a small trade to accumulate more late-round capital, a savvy move for a team looking to build depth. The fun continues in Rounds 2 and 3 with the selection of safety McNeil-Warren, a solid developmental piece for a secondary that, despite adding veterans, still has questions about its long-term stability.

A highlight for local fans comes with the projected pick of hometown product Jake Golday, who would provide crucial insurance at linebacker. This addresses the gamble the team took on Demetrius Knight and Barrett Carter, adding a reliable presence to the heart of the defense.

This mock draft scenario underscores the delicate balance the Bengals front office must strike. They must weigh immediate needs against long-term value, proven production against elite potential, and safe picks against franchise-altering gambles. How they navigate these decisions will be pivotal in their quest to return to the top of the AFC North.