Cincinnati strengthens their defense for the upcoming season by selecting a great SEC defender in the most recent major mock draft.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, teams are beginning to focus on filling gaps and improving their rosters for the future. One team that has been making some interesting moves in mock drafts is the Cincinnati Bengals. Known for their aggressive style of play and high-powered offense, the Bengals have consistently been contenders in recent years. However, their defense has been a point of emphasis for improvement, especially after some key departures in recent seasons. The latest major mock draft sees Cincinnati selecting an SEC defender, a move that could potentially elevate their defensive unit for the upcoming season and beyond.

Cincinnati has had a strong track record of building a competitive team under head coach Zac Taylor, particularly with the emergence of Joe Burrow and the offensive weapons that have surrounded him. However, as they look to build on their success, a stronger defense will be key to helping the Bengals reach their ultimate goal: an NFL championship. Let’s take a closer look at how this recent selection in the mock draft could impact Cincinnati’s defense, the player chosen, and what this pick means for the future of the franchise.

The Bengals’ Current Defense and Areas of Need

The Cincinnati Bengals have had some success in recent seasons, including a Super Bowl appearance in the 2021-2022 season, but their defense has often been a weakness in critical moments. The Bengals’ defense has been solid, but it lacks the kind of elite, game-changing playmakers that can take a team from good to great. In particular, their pass rush and secondary have both been inconsistent at times, and injuries have certainly played a role in their struggles.

Heading into the 2025 season, the Bengals’ defense remains a work in progress. While players like Trey Hendrickson and DJ Reader have been solid contributors, Cincinnati is still searching for that one key piece that can elevate the defense to an elite level. In recent years, the Bengals have relied on their offense, led by Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Joe Mixon, to win games, but this strategy is not sustainable in the long run if they want to become a perennial contender.

Cincinnati needs to find a player who can immediately impact their defense, whether that’s by strengthening their pass rush, improving their secondary, or adding depth to their linebacking corps. The selection of an SEC defender in the latest mock draft could very well be the answer they need.

The SEC Defender: Who Does Cincinnati Select?

In the latest major mock draft, Cincinnati is projected to select a standout defender from the SEC, widely considered one of the most competitive conferences in college football. The SEC consistently produces top-tier talent, and selecting a player from this conference would signal that the Bengals are serious about bolstering their defense.

While the exact player varies in different mock drafts, there are several high-profile defenders from the SEC who could make an immediate impact on Cincinnati’s defense. Whether it’s a pass rusher, cornerback, or linebacker, the Bengals are expected to go with a player who can bring a combination of athleticism, playmaking ability, and leadership to a defense that has lacked these qualities in recent seasons.

1. Pass Rusher: A Key to Defensive Improvement

One of the biggest areas of need for the Bengals has been their pass rush. While Hendrickson has been productive, the team has often struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. This has led to defensive breakdowns, especially against high-powered offenses.

If Cincinnati selects an SEC pass rusher, they would be addressing one of the most crucial positions on defense. A top-tier edge rusher from the SEC would bring a blend of speed, power, and technique that could immediately improve Cincinnati’s ability to get after the quarterback. This kind of player can disrupt the rhythm of opposing offenses, force turnovers, and make life easier for the Bengals’ secondary.

Some potential candidates could include high-profile pass rushers from powerhouse SEC programs, such as Alabama, Georgia, or LSU. These players have faced some of the best competition in college football, and their experience against elite offensive lines would translate well to the NFL. With an elite pass rusher, Cincinnati could take its defense to the next level and become more competitive in the AFC.

2. Cornerback: Strengthening the Secondary

Another area of need for the Bengals has been their secondary. While Cincinnati has some talented cornerbacks, including Chidobe Awuzie, the team has lacked a true shutdown corner who can cover elite wide receivers on a consistent basis. A top cornerback from the SEC would bring a level of competition, ball skills, and lockdown coverage ability that the Bengals need.

The SEC consistently produces top cornerback prospects who have the ability to start immediately in the NFL. These players have faced some of the best wide receivers in college football and have developed the technique and confidence needed to succeed in the NFL. If Cincinnati selects a cornerback in the 2025 draft, they could find a player who not only helps their defense immediately but also provides long-term stability in the secondary.

3. Linebacker: Impact in Coverage and Run Defense

Linebackers are the backbone of any defense, and Cincinnati could also be looking for a linebacker who can make an immediate impact in coverage and against the run. The Bengals’ linebacker corps has been a bit underwhelming in recent years, and adding an SEC linebacker with elite coverage skills and a nose for the ball could make a big difference.

SEC linebackers are known for their versatility, able to excel against both the run and the pass. If Cincinnati selects a linebacker, they could get a player who is capable of reading the field, making plays in the backfield, and dropping into coverage when necessary. This would give the Bengals more flexibility and strength in their defense, particularly when facing pass-heavy teams.

How the Pick Could Impact the Bengals’ Defense

Adding a player from the SEC with proven skills and a high football IQ would immediately strengthen the Bengals’ defense. The ability to rush the passer, cover elite receivers, or make plays in the middle of the field would give Cincinnati much-needed playmaking ability in areas that have historically been weaknesses.

An influx of talent on defense would also allow the Bengals to be more aggressive in how they approach games. With a stronger defense, the Bengals could afford to take more risks on offense, knowing they have the defensive personnel to limit opposing scoring. This balance of offense and defense is what separates championship contenders from teams that fall short.

Moreover, a high-caliber player from the SEC would not only improve Cincinnati’s current defensive lineup but also give the team a long-term solution at a key position. Building through the draft is one of the best ways to ensure sustainability, and selecting a top-tier defender would give the Bengals a cornerstone piece to build around for the next several years.

The Potential for Cincinnati’s Future

The Bengals’ inclusion in the mix for top draft picks shows that they are serious about continuing their rise in the AFC. After recent success in making the playoffs and competing for an AFC title, Cincinnati has positioned itself as a team on the rise. However, in order to take that next step and become a perennial contender, they need to address the gaps in their defense.

Selecting a standout SEC defender could be the key to this, providing a spark for the defense and allowing the Bengals to compete with the likes of the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and other AFC powerhouses. A dominant defense, when paired with the Bengals’ already impressive offense, could make them a true Super Bowl contender.