Who are the top draft prospects for the Cincinnati Bengals?

In a recent mock draft, Ohio State safety Caleb Downs and Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy were highlighted as potential first-round targets for the Bengals.

What is Jermod McCoy's injury status?

Jermod McCoy missed the entire 2025 season due to a torn ACL and will be two years removed from his last game by the upcoming NFL season.

Do the Bengals need a cornerback with their first-round pick?

The Bengals currently have a strong cornerback duo in DJ Turner and Dax Hill, suggesting that cornerback is not an immediate need for the team.

Home / Sports / Bengals' Draft Dilemma: Downs or McCoy?

Bengals' Draft Dilemma: Downs or McCoy?

27 Jan

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Summary

Mock draft suggests Bengals may pass on safety Caleb Downs.
Tennessee CB Jermod McCoy missed entire 2025 season due to ACL tear.
Bengals' cornerback needs are not immediate with existing starters.

As the Cincinnati Bengals face a critical offseason, a recent mock draft has sparked debate by suggesting they might select Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy over highly-touted Ohio State safety Caleb Downs with the 10th overall pick. This potential selection is controversial, as McCoy missed the entire 2025 season recovering from a torn ACL. He will be two years removed from his last game played by the start of the upcoming NFL season.

While McCoy is considered a first-round caliber cornerback, his recent injury history raises concerns for a team that has not always had success with prospects recovering from major college injuries. Furthermore, the Bengals currently have a solid cornerback pairing in DJ Turner and Dax Hill, diminishing the immediate need for McCoy. His potential role would likely be as a future starter after Turner or Hill depart in subsequent offseasons, making the decision to pass on an instant-impact player like Downs a significant gamble.