Bengals’ Draft Blueprint: Building Offensive Line Versatility for 2025 and Beyond

The Cincinnati Bengals are at a critical juncture. After a Super Bowl appearance and consistent playoff contention, the team is striving to reclaim its position as a dominant force in the AFC. A key component of this resurgence hinges on fortifying the offensive line, ensuring Joe Burrow remains upright and the running game gains traction. With the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, the Bengals’ strategy is centered on acquiring versatile players who can contribute immediately and provide long-term stability.

The State of the Bengals’ Offensive Line

In 2024, the Bengals’ offensive line struggled to provide consistent protection for Joe Burrow. While Burrow’s quick release sometimes masked the line’s deficiencies, the pressure rate and sack rate painted a concerning picture. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), the Bengals’ pass-blocking efficiency ranked near the bottom of the league. The running game also suffered, with the team struggling to generate consistent yardage.

The Bengals have already taken steps to address these issues. They signed veteran guard Lucas Patrick and re-signed Cody Ford, moves aimed at adding depth and experience to the interior. However, the team recognizes the need for a more significant infusion of talent, particularly through the draft.

The 2025 Draft: A Focus on Versatility

The Bengals’ draft strategy emphasizes versatility, seeking players who can play multiple positions along the offensive line. This approach is driven by several factors:

Flexibility in Game Day Rosters: The NFL now allows eight offensive linemen to be active on game day, making versatility a valuable asset. Linemen who can play both guard and tackle provide crucial flexibility in case of injuries.
Adaptability to Different Schemes: Versatile linemen can adapt to different blocking schemes, allowing the Bengals to be more unpredictable on offense.
Maximizing Value: By drafting players who can play multiple positions, the Bengals can maximize the value of their draft picks and ensure they have quality backups at every spot.

Potential Draft Targets

Several offensive line prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft fit the Bengals’ mold of versatility and athleticism. Here are a few names to watch:

Tyler Booker (Alabama): Booker, a standout guard from Alabama, possesses the size, power, and technique to be a Day 1 starter in the NFL. Scouts praise his run-blocking ability and high football IQ. While primarily a guard, some believe he could also play tackle if needed.
Grey Zabel (North Dakota State): Zabel is a versatile prospect who played four of the five offensive line positions in college. His explosive traits and toughness make him an intriguing option for the Bengals.
Kelvin Banks Jr. (Texas): Banks has experience playing left tackle but could transition to guard in the NFL. His athleticism and solid measurables make him a potential first-round target for the Bengals.
Will Campbell (LSU): Campbell, another tackle prospect, possesses the size and strength to play guard. His versatility makes him a valuable asset for any team.
Tate Ratledge (Georgia): While not the most dynamic athlete, Ratledge’s solid pass-blocking technique and power in the run game make him a potential starter in the NFL.

The Importance of Athleticism

In recent years, the Bengals’ offensive line has been criticized for lacking athleticism. The team appears to be addressing this issue by targeting more athletic linemen in the draft. According to reports, the Bengals interviewed several athletic linemen at the combine, signaling a shift in their approach.

Athletic linemen are better equipped to handle pass-rushers, pull on running plays, and adjust to changing defensive fronts. By adding more athleticism to the offensive line, the Bengals can create a more dynamic and versatile offense.

Free Agency Considerations

In addition to the draft, the Bengals may also look to free agency to bolster their offensive line. Veteran guards like Brandon Scherff and Dalton Risner could provide immediate upgrades to the interior. The Bengals could also target offensive tackles who have the versatility to play guard, such as Mekhi Becton or Patrick Mekari.

The Impact on Joe Burrow

Ultimately, the Bengals’ focus on offensive line versatility is about protecting Joe Burrow. Burrow has shown the ability to elevate the Bengals’ offense to elite levels when healthy and protected. By providing him with a strong and versatile offensive line, the Bengals can maximize his potential and increase their chances of winning a Super Bowl.

A Balanced Approach

While improving the offensive line is a priority, the Bengals also have needs on the defensive side of the ball. The team needs to improve its pass rush, add depth at linebacker, and find a long-term solution at safety. As a result, the Bengals may look to address both offensive and defensive needs in the draft.

Conclusion

The Cincinnati Bengals’ draft blueprint for 2025 centers on building offensive line versatility. By targeting players who can play multiple positions, the Bengals can create a more flexible and adaptable offense, better protect Joe Burrow, and improve their chances of competing for a Super Bowl. The upcoming draft represents a crucial opportunity for the Bengals to solidify their offensive line and position themselves for long-term success.