The Cincinnati Bengals are once again in a position to reload their roster as they look to remain contenders in the AFC. With a franchise quarterback in Joe Burrow, the focus for the 2025 NFL Draft will likely be on fortifying both the defense and the offensive line. The Bengals have needs in the secondary, the trenches, and at edge rusher, and there are several high-impact prospects who could fill those roles.
Here are five first-round prospects Cincinnati should have high on their draft board.
Cincinnati Bengals Big Board: Potential First-Round Fits Including Cornerback and Edge Rusher
Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
The Bengals’ secondary has dealt with injuries and inconsistencies over the past couple of seasons, making an elite cornerback a top priority. Will Johnson is arguably the best corner in the 2025 draft class. At 6-foot-2 and 202 pounds, the Michigan star has the size, speed, and coverage instincts to match up with the best receivers in the NFL. He thrives in press coverage and has the ball skills to generate turnovers, making him an ideal fit for Cincinnati’s defense.
Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina
With the departure of key safeties in recent years, the Bengals could use a versatile defensive back like Nick Emmanwori. The 6-foot-4, 218-pound safety from South Carolina is a physical presence in the secondary who can play deep coverage, step up in run support, and even cover tight ends in man-to-man situations. His range and tackling ability would give Cincinnati an anchor at the back end of their defense.
Tyler Booker, G, Alabama
Protecting Joe Burrow remains a top priority for Cincinnati, and Tyler Booker would be a major addition to the offensive line. The 6-foot-5, 335-pound Alabama guard is a dominant run blocker with the power to move defenders off the ball. He also has the quickness and technique to hold up in pass protection, making him a plug-and-play option at either guard spot. Adding Booker would help solidify the interior offensive line and keep Burrow upright.
Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall
Cincinnati’s pass rush has been effective but could use more young talent to complement Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard. Mike Green is a fast-rising prospect out of Marshall who has the size (6-foot-3, 252 pounds) and athleticism to be an immediate impact player off the edge. His explosive first step and relentless motor allow him to generate consistent pressure, and he also has the ability to drop into coverage when needed. Green’s versatility would fit well in the Bengals’ defensive front.
Walter Nolen, DL, Ole Miss
Adding more strength to the interior defensive line is another area of focus for Cincinnati, and Walter Nolen brings the kind of disruptive ability that could transform the Bengals’ front. At 6-foot-4 and 300 pounds, Nolen has a rare combination of power, quickness, and technique that allows him to penetrate into the backfield. He’s dominant against both the run and pass, and pairing him with DJ Reader (if re-signed) or another interior lineman would give Cincinnati a formidable defensive front.
Final Thoughts
With needs in the secondary, pass rush, and offensive line, the Bengals have plenty of strong options in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Whether they prioritize a shutdown corner like Will Johnson, a physical safety like Nick Emmanwori, or a dominant interior lineman like Tyler Booker or Walter Nolen, Cincinnati has a chance to land a difference-maker who can help them remain competitive in the AFC.
If the Bengals want to return to the Super Bowl, addressing these key areas will be crucial. With the right selection in the first round, Cincinnati can take another step toward building a championship-caliber roster.
