Bengals Draft Preview: Linebackers

An unheralded unit played surprisingly well in 2008 but the team needs to improve its linebacker talent and athleticism. 2008 1st rounder Keith Rivers is a building block but the team does not have any other top talent at the position. The decision to move Dhani Jones in the middle provided stability but he is not getting any younger or faster. On the strongside Rashad Jeanty is a stopgap who is an ok run stuffer who has never delivered on his pass rushing promise. The backup situation leaves a lot to be desired aside from last year's free agent surprise Brandon Johnson. Darryl Blackstock is miscast in a 4-3, and backup MLB Abdul Hodge is unproven. Based on the above, the Bengals could consider a linebacker as early as round 2 (but more likely round 3) and multiple picks are a possibility. It is worth mentioning the Bengals have drafted 6 linebackers in the first three rounds of the draft during the Marvin Lewis era (6 drafts) and only Keith Rivers remains with the team. Early Targets (Rounds 1-2): ILB -Rey Maualuga, James Laurinaitis, Darry Beckwith Mid-Targets (Rounds 3-4): ILB - Jasper Brinkley, Jason Phillips OLB - Marcus Freeman Tyrone McKenzieLate Round Sleepers (Rounds 5-7): ILB: Worrell Williams, Frantz Joseph OLB - DeAndre Levy, Jason Williams, Ashlee PalmerILB RankingsOLB Rankings