The 2025 NFL Draft kicks off one week from today, and the Bengals will have the 17th pick in the first round. We've rounded up the latest projections from media outlets across the league to give you a look at who could be joining the Bengals this year.
Updated: April 17, 2025
DT Walter Nolen, Mississippi
"Nolen is a disruptive interior rusher, and his best snaps show pure dominance. Finding more consistency would unlock another level of his game."
EDGE Mike Green, Marshall
"Green notched 17 sacks, 10 quarterback hits and 32 hurries as the FBS' highest-graded edge defender (92.4) in 2024."
S Malaki Starks, Georgia
"Starks offers pedigree (five-star recruit), high-level experience (three-year starter at Georgia) and versatility (significant snaps as a box defender, nickelback and single-high safety)... The man's play speed is undeniable, while his cerebral approach to the game is gold on the pre-draft interview circuit. "
EDGE James Pearce Jr., Tennessee
"The former Vols star posted a position-best 4.47-second 40-yard dash over the weekend, showcasing the first-step burst that could make him a disruptive rusher at the next level."
EDGE Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M
"Stewart brings the prototypical size, length and athleticism that aligns with what the Bengals have historically valued in edge defenders."
OT Josh Conerly Jr., Oregon
"Conerly can play inside if need be but has tackle length and had squeaky clean film in pass pro and when on the move for the run game."
DT Derrick Harmon, Oregon
"No other interior defensive lineman was more disruptive in the FBS last season, against both run and pass. It's hard to go wrong drafting guys who hate to be blocked, and that sums up Harmon."
