Interesting pick.

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There is no doubt that the Cincinnati Bengals’ defense needs help this offseason. With new defensive coordinator Al Golden now in place, the team can look toward how they can improve the defensive unit through free agency and the NFL draft.

In his latest mock draft, ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. has the Bengals selecting linebacker Jihaad Campbell from the Alabama Crimson Tide.

How contract situations play out for Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase could pivot the calculus, but it’d be nearly impossible for Cincinnati to ignore the defense. Without a doubt, that unit kept the Bengals from the playoffs this season, allowing 25.5 points per game (25th). So I’m matching them with a prospect who does a little bit of everything on that side of the ball. Campbell had 112 tackles, 5 sacks, 12 run stops and an interception this season. He’s instinctive and explosive.

Linebacker is sort of a surprising pick for the Bengals, at least at pick 17. With Logan Wilson and Germaine Pratt both under contract for 2025, it would honestly be surprising to see the Bengals pounce on a linebacker this early.

Then again, Wilson and Pratt were the two linebackers in Lou Anarumo’s scheme. Golden could be interested in adding another linebacker to the mix.

Most fans would likely want another edge rusher in this spot, but Kiper has them going in another direction.