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:

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.

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.

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.

The Bengals seem to love Clemson guys, and although Parker didn’t have a great 2025 season, he had a monster 2024 campaign with 11 sacks and helped his stock with a strong week at the Senior Bowl. He is an intriguing option as a versatile player capable of sliding inside as well. His burst seems to show up more when he rushes inside, and he’s adept in the run game as well.

Cincinnati used two draft picks last year in the first four rounds to rebuild the linebacker corps and thrust both Demetrius Knight and Barrett Carter into starting roles as rookies. Despite their struggles, they likely are still the foundation in the middle of the defense but the Bengals still need depth and Allen could provide good competition. He’s an intelligent playmaker with high character, leadership and communication skills, which fits the mold for Cincinnati, and he plays bigger than his 6-foot-1, 235-pound frame if that’s a concern.

One of two prospects that were left waiting in the green room at the draft in Pittsburgh, he would be an option if still available at No. 41. He’s got good size and strength for the position, but is at his best against the run. He shows flashes in the pass rush but lacks the explosiveness to consistently win. With Kris Jenkins and McKinnley Jackson still finding their way, McDonald might be a worthwhile development project.

Hill brings outstanding size and speed to the table, and he has the agility to match up with the athletic tight ends he will match up with in the NFL, but his lack of physicality might be an issue in the AFC North. Instincts and speed put him in position to make a lot of plays, and he’s also a strong blitzer. He would provide a different skill set to Cincinnati’s linebackers corps.