Bengals Reload With Post-Trade NFL Draft Picks

Cincinnati Bengals address key needs on defense and offense in 7-round mock draft after blockbuster Dexter Lawrence trade

Apr. 19, 2026 at 10:03pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a football game, with sharp planes of color representing the players and action on the field.The Bengals' bold offseason moves and strategic draft picks aim to construct a championship-caliber roster through a cubist lens.Cincinnati Today

Just days before the 2026 NFL Draft, the Cincinnati Bengals made a blockbuster trade with the New York Giants, sending the 10th overall pick to acquire star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. This significantly changes the Bengals' draft plans, as they now don't pick until the second round. In this 7-round mock draft, the Bengals focus on strengthening their defense and offensive line to support quarterback Joe Burrow's push for a Super Bowl run.

Why it matters

The Bengals are in win-now mode after making the playoffs in 2025 and trading for Lawrence, a dominant interior defensive lineman. This draft is crucial for Cincinnati to surround Burrow with more talent on both sides of the ball and solidify themselves as a top contender in the AFC.

The details

In this mock draft, the Bengals select edge rusher Zion Young in the 2nd round, linebacker Kyle Louis in the 3rd, interior offensive lineman Billy Schrauth in the 4th, safety Cole Wisniewski in the 6th, cornerback Domani Jackson also in the 6th, tight end Dae'Quan Wright in the 7th, and running back Eli Heidenreich in the 7th. These picks address key needs on defense and the offensive line to support Burrow and the Bengals' championship aspirations.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26, 2026.

The players

Zion Young

A promising edge rusher from the University of Missouri who the Bengals hope can bolster their pass rush.

Kyle Louis

A linebacker from the University of Pittsburgh known for his strong coverage skills, which the Bengals need to improve their linebacker corps.

Billy Schrauth

An interior offensive lineman from Notre Dame who the Bengals select to provide depth and competition on the offensive line.

Cole Wisniewski

A safety from Texas Tech who the Bengals hope can develop into a contributor in their secondary.

Domani Jackson

A cornerback from the University of Alabama who the Bengals draft to add depth and competition at the cornerback position.

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What they’re saying

“With securing their star interior defensive lineman, the draft plans now change for the Bengals. With now not picking until the second round, this is an updated seven-round mock draft, taking a look at how this trade impacts how the draft could play out for Cincinnati.”

— Marissa Myers, TWSN Writer and Editor

“If Zion Young makes it to the Bengals at 41, they shouldn't let him pass by. Following a disappointing rookie season from Shemar Stewart, the Bengals can't afford to leave the edge rotation as is.”

— Steve Bradshaw, TWSN NFL Draft Specialist

What’s next

The Bengals will look to build on their 2025 playoff appearance and make a deep run in 2026 with their new additions from the draft.

The takeaway

The Bengals have made it clear they are in win-now mode, and this draft class reflects that mentality. By trading for Dexter Lawrence and then addressing key needs on defense and the offensive line, Cincinnati is positioning itself to be a top contender in the AFC.