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5 Bold Predictions For Cincinnati Bengals In 2015 NFL Draft

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5 Bold Predictions For Cincinnati Bengals In 2015 NFL Draft

Cincinnati Bengals Helmets
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The 2015 NFL Draft is only two days away, and the anticipation heading into it is overwhelming. The Cincinnati Bengals could go in many different directions for their first-round pick, which will pave the way for their remaining eight picks. Here are five bold predictions heading into Thursday.

5. Offensive and Defensive Lines Will Be Addressed First

Bengals offensive and defensive linemen training camp
David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports

5. Offensive and Defensive Lines Will Be Addressed First

Bengals offensive and defensive linemen training camp
David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports

Two of the Bengals' major needs are offensive and defensive linemen. The question of which one will be taken first is debatable. While an offensive lineman is more of a future need, a defensive end is a more immediate need for the 2015 season. It just depends on which players are available at the time and how they prioritize these needs.

4. No Involvement In First-Round Trade

Roger Goodell NFL Draft
Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

4. No Involvement In First-Round Trade

Roger Goodell NFL Draft
Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

Certain rumors have surfaced stating that the Bengals in the midst of trade talks in the first round, possibly to get that defensive pass rusher they are in need of. However, I believe there is enough talent in this draft where a trade won't be necessary. They will be able to get a solid contributor at pick No. 21, so I predict they stay put.

3. Two Wide Receivers Will Be Drafted

Bengals Wide Receivers
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3. Two Wide Receivers Will Be Drafted

Bengals Wide Receivers
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The Bengals will face some adversity at the WR position in 2016, with all three of their top receivers becoming free agents. While A.J. Green is likely to receive the franchise tag, the future status of Mohamed Sanu and Marvin Jones is unknown. I think the Bengals will focus a lot on receivers in this year's draft, with potential to fill those big shoes if need be.

2. Much-Needed TE Will Be Found In Middle Rounds

Bengals Tight Ends
Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

2. Much-Needed TE Will Be Found In Middle Rounds

Bengals Tight Ends
Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Jermaine Gresham will most likely not be returning to Cincinnati, so whether it's in free agency or the draft, the Bengals will need a tight end to match up well with Tyler Eifert. I predict they try to find that guy in the draft around the fourth or fifth round.

1. QB Will Be Taken In Late Rounds

Andy Dalton Cincinnati Bengals
Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

1. QB Will Be Taken In Late Rounds

Andy Dalton Cincinnati Bengals
Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Andy Dalton has yet to really prove he is that franchise quarterback for the Bengals. His inconsistencies and primetime performances have been an issue, and 2015 could be a make-or-break year for him. Look for the Bengals to draft a sleeper QB around the sixth round to provide depth and compete for the starting job in future years.

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