Bengals Flip Between Offense And Defense in Latest Three-Round 2026 Mock Draft

ESPN's draft team alternated selections for Cincinnati, resulting in two defensive picks and one on offense.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 10:37am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented football players, draft prospects, and team logos, conveying the complex and multifaceted nature of the NFL draft process.The Bengals' draft strategy aims to fortify both their offense and defense, reflecting a balanced approach to building a championship-caliber roster.Cincinnati Today

The NFL Draft team at ESPN collaborated on a three-round mock draft, with Field Yates, Mel Kiper Jr., Matt Miller, and Jordan Reid each making selections. The Cincinnati Bengals made two defensive picks - LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane at 10th overall and Iowa State defensive tackle Domonique Orange at 72nd overall - along with one offensive pick, Georgia wide receiver Zachariah Branch at 41st overall.

Why it matters

The Bengals' draft strategy in this exercise reflects a focus on shoring up their defense while also adding another playmaker on offense to complement stars like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. These picks could help the team continue its recent success and make a deep playoff run.

The details

In the first round, the Bengals selected LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane, who is ranked 10th on the consensus big board and first among cornerbacks. The team then took Georgia wide receiver Zachariah Branch, ranked 68th overall and 11th among receivers, in the second round. To close out the mock draft, Cincinnati picked Iowa State defensive tackle Domonique Orange, ranked 74th overall and sixth among defensive tackles.

  • The three-round mock draft was conducted this week by the ESPN NFL Draft team.

The players

Mansoor Delane

A cornerback from LSU who is ranked 10th on the consensus big board and first among cornerbacks.

Zachariah Branch

A wide receiver from Georgia who is ranked 68th on the consensus big board and 11th among receivers.

Domonique Orange

A defensive tackle from Iowa State who is ranked 74th on the consensus big board and sixth among defensive tackles.

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What they’re saying

“DJ Turner II and Dax Hill are talented, but Delane would be an upgrade on the outside, where he can win at the line of scrimmage with great quickness and instincts.”

— Matt Miller

“Branch is 5-foot-9 and 177 pounds, but he's lightning quick (4.35-second 40-yard dash) and does damage after the catch. He'd be yet another playmaker for Joe Burrow alongside Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.”

— Mel Kiper Jr.

“Cincinnati must address its defensive tackle depth. 'Big Citrus' is a powerful, explosive nose tackle to aid in that area.”

— Field Yates

What’s next

The Bengals will look to build on their recent success and make a deep playoff run in the 2026 season. Their draft strategy in this mock, focusing on defense and adding another offensive weapon, could help them achieve that goal.

The takeaway

The Bengals' three-pick haul in this ESPN mock draft reflects a balanced approach, addressing needs on both sides of the ball. While the picks may be seen as reaches by some, the team is clearly focused on continuing to build a well-rounded roster capable of competing for a championship.