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The Cincinnati Bengals are focusing on strengthening their defensive front in the 2025 NFL Draft, aiming to enhance their pass rush and overall defensive line performance. Holding the 17th overall pick, the team is evaluating several promising edge rushers and defensive linemen to bolster their defense.
**Potential First-Round Targets:**
1. **Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M**: Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 281 pounds, Stewart possesses a blend of size, speed, and power. Despite recording only 1.5 sacks in each of the past three seasons, his physical attributes suggest untapped potential. If the Bengals can harness his abilities, Stewart could offer versatile pass-rushing capabilities both on the edge and interior. citeturn0search3
2. **James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee**: At 6-foot-5 and 243 pounds, Pearce is known for his quickness and agility. He achieved a 7.5-sack season with an impressive 18.7% pressure rate, ranking second in the FBS. Pearce could serve as a dynamic complement to Trey Hendrickson, enhancing the Bengals’ pass-rushing duo. citeturn0search1
3. **Kenneth Grant, Defensive Tackle, Michigan**: Grant is recognized for his elite run-stopping abilities, earning positive grades on 25.8% of run plays in 2024. He also contributed 27 total pressures and five batted passes, showcasing his prowess as a pass rusher. Grant’s combination of power and athleticism could significantly bolster the Bengals’ interior defensive line. citeturn0search2
4. **Derrick Harmon, Defensive Tackle, Oregon**: Harmon, standing at 6-foot-5 and 310 pounds, is noted for his pass-rushing capabilities from the interior. He was described as “arguably the most dynamic pass-rushing defensive tackle in 2024.” Adding Harmon could provide the Bengals with a formidable presence in the middle of their defensive line. citeturn0search1
The Bengals’ draft strategy reflects a commitment to reinforcing their defensive front, aiming to support their existing talent and address areas that underperformed in the previous season. By targeting these prospects, Cincinnati seeks to build a more formidable defense capable of competing at the highest level.
For a more in-depth analysis of potential defensive line targets for the Bengals, you might find the following video insightful:
videoTOP Defensive Lineman Targets for the Cincinnati Bengalsturn0search0
