The Cincinnati Bengals have been grappling with defensive challenges over the past few years, and it's clear they're committed to bolstering that side of the ball to support defensive coordinator Al Golden in his second season. However, don't count out the possibility of the Bengals adding some firepower to their already dynamic offense this spring.
In a recent NFL media conference call with the draft expert Daniel Jeremiah from the NFL Network, I had the chance to delve into the Bengals' draft strategy. While it's expected that they'll focus on defense with their No. 10 overall pick, there's intrigue around whether they might also enhance their wide receiver corps.
The idea of adding another receiver might seem surprising at first, but a true slot receiver could be just what Cincinnati needs. Back in their 2021-2022 peak, Tyler Boyd excelled in that role, with Trenton Irwin also contributing. A tough, reliable, and agile slot receiver alongside Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins could elevate this offense to new heights.
When discussing these options before the NFL Combine, I was considering mid-round picks, particularly in rounds 3-5. However, Jeremiah had a different perspective, suggesting an earlier pick.
He mentioned, “If I could scheme and use pick No. 41 (Bengals’ second-round spot), I’d push for Omar Cooper, Jr.”
Jeremiah praised Cooper as “The Rams-iest receiver in the draft,” highlighting his toughness and strength. Cooper’s ability to maintain composure and confidence while catching in traffic makes him a standout candidate.
With Tyler Boyd and Irwin no longer on the roster, Cincinnati has explored various options to fill that slot receiver void, drafting players like Andrei Iosivas, Charlie Jones, and Jermaine Burton with mixed results. Iosivas has shown potential as a boundary/red zone target, and Jones has excelled in special teams, but the Bengals might still need a versatile weapon to keep defenses honest.
Cooper, Jr. is currently Jeremiah’s No. 19 overall prospect. His college career with the Indiana Hoosiers, culminating in a National Championship, showcased his talent. In 2025, he recorded 69 receptions for 937 yards and 13 touchdowns, transitioning from an outside role to a versatile inside weapon.
Jeremiah also emphasized Cooper’s character, a quality highly valued by Bengals coach Zac Taylor. “The character reports on him are elite,” Jeremiah noted. “Pairing Cooper with Chase and Higgins would be a dream.”
Standing at 6’0” and 204 pounds, Cooper possesses a running back-like style that could make his height a non-issue. His skill set is reminiscent of past Bengals slot receivers like Boyd, Andrew Hawkins, and TJ Houshmandzadeh. Adding Cooper to an offense featuring Joe Burrow, Chase, Higgins, Chase Brown, and Mike Gesicki could make the Bengals even more formidable.