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NFL Cincinnati Bengals

5 Bold Predictions For Cincinnati Bengals’ 2014 Rookie Class

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5 Bold Predictions For Cincinnati Bengals' 2014 Rookie Class

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Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Now that the Cincinnati Bengals' NFL draft is complete, Here are a few predictions for their rookies in 2014.

5. Marquis Flowers Will See Extended Time at LB

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5. Marquis Flowers Will See Extended Time at LB

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One thing the Bengals' linebackers are not known for is speed, as is evident when players such as Rey Maualuga attempt coverage against wide receivers. For this Arizona linebacker, speed is one of his assets as he ran a 40-yard time near the 4.4 range in Arizona's pro day. Look for Flowers to see extended playing time in obvious passing situations.

4. Will Clarke Will Only Be Active For 6 Games

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Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

4. Will Clarke Will Only Be Active For 6 Games

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Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

With the loss of defensive end Michael Johnson in free agency, the Bengals went after Will Clarke to fill a vacancy. Much like Margus Hunt in 2013, Clarke will be a project for coach Jay Hayes, and will be relegated to occasional third-down and special teams duty when he plays. Expect to see Clarke dress for less than half of Cincinnati's 2014 games.

3. A.J. McCarron Will Be Second on the Depth Chart by Week 9

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3. A.J. McCarron Will Be Second on the Depth Chart by Week 9

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A.J. McCarron does not pose a threat to Andy Dalton's starting job barring injury or pure self-destruction. While Jason Campbell was brought to Cincinnati to provide stability behind Dalton, look for McCarron to impress coaches during limited practice reps and preseason games to warrant a depth chart promotion by Week 9.

2. Darqueze Dennard Will Be 2014 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year

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2. Darqueze Dennard Will Be 2014 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year

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The most fundamentally sound cornerback in the draft will excel on a smothering defense such as the one in Cincinnati. With the return of a healthy Geno Atkins, the Bengals' front seven will produce consistent pressure, allowing for ample opportunities for CBs Dennard and Leon Hall to feast on mistakes. Dennard will lead all NFL rookies in interceptions and passes defended.

1. Jeremy Hill Will Rush for 1,000 Yards

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1. Jeremy Hill Will Rush for 1,000 Yards

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Despite being placed behind Giovani Bernard and BenJarvus Green-Ellis on the preseason depth chart, Jeremy Hill will emerge as the featured back for the Cincinnati Bengals. Proving the ability to stay durable, Hill will succeed behind a stout offensive line. Meanwhile, Hill and Bernard will combine for over 1,700 rushing yards and over 5.4 yards per carry.

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