The Cincinnati Bengals are making moves to bolster their defensive backfield, and signing former Kansas City Chiefs safety Bryan Cook was a big step in the right direction. However, there's still work to be done before the season kicks off. That's why it's no surprise that the Bengals have scheduled a top-30 visit with Ole Miss safety Kapena Gushiken.
Gushiken turned heads at his Pro Day with some impressive numbers. Standing 5-foot-10 and weighing in at 189 pounds, he clocked a blazing 4.33 seconds in the 40-yard dash.
His agility was on full display with a 6.77-second three-cone drill and a 4.22-second short shuttle. Add to that a 41-inch vertical leap and an 11-foot broad jump, along with 18 reps on the bench press, and you've got a prospect who's hard to ignore.
The Bengals are looking for depth and versatility at safety, especially after Tycen Anderson's departure to the Denver Broncos. Whether it's providing an insurance policy for Jordan Battle or contributing on special teams, Gushiken could be the piece they need.
Projected as a Day 3 pick, Gushiken was initially on the cusp of going undrafted. But with a Pro Day performance like that, he's moving up the draft boards. He'll likely need to carve out a role on special teams to make a roster, but with his skill set and attitude, he's got a solid shot at making an impact.