Draft Grades: Bengals

If nothing else, give the Bengals credit for taking risks... lots of them.

Andre Smith has a ton of potential, but no 1st-round pick has as many red flags as Smith. His work ethic is a serious concern and he very well could fold once he receives his first NFL contract. Its a risky pick and one that would only by made by a coach on the hot seat such as Marvin Lewis.

Rey Maualuga is also a risky pick. Many believe that he is only a two-down player, which led to his fall out of the 1st round. Like Smith, however, its a pick that could have a ton of upside.

The Bengals took a leap of faith with their first two picks, so why should the third be any different. Michael Johnson is the most athletic defensive lineman in this draft class, but he was only a full-time starter for one year and failed to live up to expectations as a senior. That said, he's probably worth the risk in the 3rd round.

Chase Coffman is a great fit in Cincinnati. He could be the receiving threat at tight end they've been looking for. He should see significant playing time from day one.

Jonathan Luigs is another solid pick. The Bengals have a serious hole at center and Luigs will be give the opportunity to step in from day one.

Kevin Huber was the top punter in this year's draft class and should be the Bengals starter. Punters are hard to judge though, and I think the 5th round is almost always too early to select a special teams player.

Morgan Trent will add some depth to the Bengals weak secondary, but he doesn't have much upside. He struggled as a senior at Michigan and I don't see him making an impact in Cincinnati.

Bernard Scott is a shot in the dark. He's a decent small school running back that will be given a chance to make the team as the third string running back.

Fui Vakapuna will compete with Daniel Coats and Jeremi Johnson for playing time at fullback. Fullback isn't a strong point on the team, so he's worth a shot.

Clinton McDonald doesn't have much upside, but he'll some depth the Bengals depleted defensive line. He won't be a starter, but could work into the rotation.

The Bengals needed a receiver in this draft, but I'm not sure why they waited until their last pick. Freddie Brown will struggle to make the roster and even if he does, he won't fill the hole left by the departure of T.J. Houshmandzadeh.

The Bengals landed some very talented players in this draft, including three potential 6 potential starters (including Kevin Huber). However, each of their first three picks come with some baggage. If all three live up to potential, this will be an elite draft. However, this is the Bengals, and they don't exactly have a good track record developing young talent.

Grade: B