In the recently concluded 2024 draft, the Cincinnati Bengals made substantial moves to fortify their team, particularly in the trenches. Adding a total of 10 players to their roster, including five linemen and two tight ends, the Bengals aim to strengthen their offensive and defensive lines.

The Bengals started off their draft with a bang, selecting Amarius Mims in the first round at No. 18. Mims, a massive 6-foot-8, 340-pound offensive tackle from Georgia, brings exceptional athleticism and length to the team. With the goal of protecting star quarterback Joe Burrow, Mims has the potential to become one of the standout players from this year's draft class. He even had the opportunity to gain valuable insights from Orlando Brown Jr. during a dinner meeting, making Brown an ideal role model for Mims.

In the second round, the Bengals added Kris Jenkins, a defensive tackle from Michigan, at No. 49. Jenkins is expected to make an immediate impact in the defensive line rotation. Known for his strength and toughness as a run defender and a pass rusher, Jenkins has the potential to become a team captain within a few seasons.

Continuing their focus on skill positions, the Bengals selected Jermaine Burton, a wide receiver from Alabama, in the third round at No. 80. Burton possesses explosive speed and a knack for making big plays downfield. He is projected to slot in as the Bengals' third receiver behind Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, providing further depth to their receiving corps.

The Bengals addressed their need for a nose tackle in the third round at No. 97 by drafting McKinnley Jackson from Texas A&M. Jackson, an athletic and sizable presence on the line, will contribute immediately to the team's defensive efforts.

Erick All, a tight end from Iowa, joined the Bengals in the fourth round at No. 115. All's impressive pass-catching abilities and route running make him a potential weapon for Burrow. However, concerns remain regarding his health, as he has suffered significant injuries in the past. The Bengals conducted in-depth medical evaluations on All and are hopeful he can remain healthy during his professional career.

Adding depth to their secondary, the Bengals selected Josh Newton, a cornerback from TCU, in the fifth round at No. 149. Newton's physicality, competitiveness, and ball skills make him a valuable asset to the team's defense, with the potential to compete for a starting role.

In the sixth round, the Bengals doubled down on tight ends, drafting Tanner McLachlan from Arizona at No. 194. McLachlan, a talented pass catcher, needs to improve his strength as a blocker but has the potential to become an asset in the team's pass-oriented offense.

Cedric Johnson, a promising defensive end from Ole Miss, was selected in the sixth round at No. 214. Johnson's athleticism and impressive college production make him a strong rotational edge rusher for the team, possibly stepping into a larger role in the future.

In the seventh round, the Bengals made their final selections, starting with Daijahn Anthony, a defensive back from Ole Miss, at No. 224. Anthony's remarkable journey from overlooked high school player to an important contributor in college speaks to his tenacity and potential versatility in the NFL.

The Bengals rounded out their draft by selecting Matt Lee, a center from Miami, at No. 237. Lee will compete for the backup center position with Trey Hill during training camp and has a chance to make an immediate impact with his proficient pass-blocking skills.

In summary, the Bengals' 2024 draft class has the potential to make a significant impact on the team's trajectory. With notable additions in the offensive and defensive lines, as well as at wide receiver and tight end, the Bengals are looking to build a solid foundation for the future. The success of players like Mims, Jenkins, Burton, and All could potentially make this draft class one of the franchise's best in recent years. As fans eagerly await the upcoming season, the Bengals organization surely hopes that this draft class will be a catalyst for their success in the coming years.

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