Cincinnati Bengals 2008 NFL Draft Review

Posted: Sun Apr 27 11:35 PM

By Tony Moss, NFL Editor

(Sports Network) -

1 - Keith Rivers, LB, USC (6-2, 241); 2 - Jerome Simpson, WR, Coastal Carolina (6-2, 199); 3 - Pat Sims, DT, Auburn (6-2, 310); 3 - Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida (6-0, 204); 4 - Anthony Collins, T, Kansas (6-5, 310); 5 - Jason Shirley, DT, Fresno State (6-5, 329); 6 - Corey Lynch, S, Appalachian State (6-0, 202); 6 - Matt Sherry, TE, Villanova (6-4, 250); 7 - Angelo Craig, DE/OLB, Cincinnati (6-4, 252); 7 - Mario Urrutia, WR, Louisville (6-5, 229)

Analysis: Whether the Bengals play a 4-3, 3-4, or some variation of both, the versatile Rivers should fit in nicely on a team that needed linebacking bodies in a big way. Cincinnati fans are probably not blown away by the selection of Simpson over several other big-name receivers, but Simpson might have had the best hands in this Draft and could prove worthy of the pick. Caldwell and Urrutia were both value picks who will also have a chance to contribute on a team with wideout concerns. A weak d-line will add Sims and Shirley to the team with wideout concerns. A weak d-line will add Sims and Shirley to the rotation, and both look better suited to the 3-4. Collins looks like a starter at tackle, but certainly not right away. Lynch has "special teams captain" written all over him, while Sherry, who has terrific hands, might be the written all over him, while Sherry, who has terrific hands, might be the sleeper of Cincinnati's entire draft. Local favorite Angelo Craig might stick around as situational pass rusher.

Bottom Line: In an important draft for Marvin Lewis and company, the Bengals look to have passed with flying colors.

Grade: A-