As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, the Cincinnati Bengals are faced with a multitude of choices for their No. 18 overall pick. With various positions to address, pundits and experts have speculated on the potential players that could be selected by the Bengals.

The Athletic's Paul Dehner Jr. has highlighted four players that he believes the Bengals could realistically choose in the first round. These prospects include defensive tackle Byron Murphy II from Texas Longhorns, offensive tackle JC Latham from Alabama Crimson Tide, offensive lineman Troy Fautanu from Washington Huskies, and offensive tackle Amarius Mims from Georgia Bulldogs.

Dehner suggests that Fautanu is the most versatile of the three linemen, while Mims stands out as the most athletic. However, Dehner deems Latham as the safest pick due to his impressive power and size, as well as his experience as a starter at Alabama.

ESPN also shares a similar sentiment, predicting that the Bengals may prioritize selecting Latham and even considering a potential trade-up to secure the talented offensive tackle. The team aims to bolster their offensive line, especially with the departure of defensive tackle DJ Reader during the offseason.

While offensive tackle remains a key area of focus for the Bengals, the presence of Trent Brown, who was acquired in free agency, gives the team some leeway in the first round to potentially prioritize other positions. If Murphy, the highly regarded defensive tackle, is still available at No. 18, the Bengals could seize the opportunity to address their interior defensive line alongside Sheldon Rankins and BJ Hill.

The Bengals' draft strategy is further aided by the depth of offensive tackle prospects in this year's class. With the luxury of possessing two third-round picks, the team could potentially maneuver in the later rounds to secure an exceptional tackle who may still be available early in the second round.

As the clock ticks down to the 2024 NFL Draft, the Cincinnati Bengals find themselves faced with a wealth of choices for their No. 18 overall pick. With varied opinions from experts, the team must carefully weigh their options to solidify their roster for the upcoming season.