Bengals Deemed More Likely To Trade Down Than Up In 2026 NFL Draft

Cincinnati could move back from 10th overall pick to acquire extra selections

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:34am

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According to a recent FOX Sports mock draft, the Cincinnati Bengals are more likely to trade down than up in the 2026 NFL Draft. The report suggests the Bengals could move from the 10th overall pick to 18th, acquiring additional third-round selections from the Minnesota Vikings in the process.

Why it matters

Trading down in the draft can be a strategic move for teams looking to acquire more picks and address multiple needs. The Bengals have historically valued draft capital under general manager Duke Tobin, so a trade down scenario aligns with their typical approach.

The details

In the FOX Sports mock draft, the Vikings traded up to the 10th overall pick to select Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, giving the Bengals their 18th overall selection along with two third-round picks (Nos. 82 and 97). Cincinnati then used the 18th pick to select Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood, a player ranked 34th on the consensus big board.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.

The players

Rob Rang

FOX Sports writer who conducted the all-trades 2026 NFL mock draft.

Caleb Downs

Ohio State safety projected to be selected in the top 10 of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Colton Hood

Tennessee cornerback selected by the Bengals at 18th overall in the mock draft.

Duke Tobin

Cincinnati Bengals director of player personnel, known for his strategic approach to the draft.

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What they’re saying

“Some believe that safeties just aren't valuable enough in today's NFL to justify a top-10 selection, but I think Downs' tape over the past three seasons proves that he is the best player in this draft class. If he slips far enough, some savvy team is going to look brilliant.”

— Rob Rang, FOX Sports writer

“All trades are difficult. You have to find a partner. You have to have cooperation with your players. Trades can be complicated. That hypothetical scenario would be very complicated.”

— Duke Tobin, Bengals director of player personnel

What’s next

The Bengals will continue to evaluate their options leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, weighing the potential benefits of trading down to acquire additional picks against the risk of missing out on a top prospect.

The takeaway

The Bengals' willingness to trade down in the draft aligns with their history of prioritizing draft capital under GM Duke Tobin. While a trade down scenario could provide them with extra picks to address multiple needs, it also carries the risk of missing out on a blue-chip prospect, making the decision a complex one for the Cincinnati front office.