The Cincinnati Bengals are on the clock for the upcoming NFL Draft, and there's a buzz surrounding Auburn's defensive standout, Keldric Faulk. But should they pull the trigger on Faulk with their first pick? Let's dive into the details.
First, it's important to acknowledge Faulk's skill set. His ability to stop the run is exactly what the Bengals' struggling defense needs.
Last season, Cincinnati ranked at the bottom for rushing yards allowed and runs over 20 yards. Faulk could be the remedy for these woes, boasting an impressive missed tackle rate of 6.4% when he penetrates the backfield.
However, the Bengals' history with first-round defensive picks gives fans pause. Take Myles Murphy, selected in 2023, who was expected to bolster the pass rush but hasn't quite lived up to expectations. In three seasons, Murphy has averaged just over three sacks per year, drawing comparisons to Sam Hubbard but without the same impact.
Then there's Shamar Stewart, whose selection left many scratching their heads. Ranked 203rd out of 204 edge rushers over the last decade, his run-stop rate was a mere 3.7%. Stewart's struggles highlight the Bengals' recent draft missteps, making fans wary of another potential gamble on Faulk.
Despite these concerns, Faulk's strength in run defense is tempting. His ability to tackle effectively could fill a critical gap for the Bengals.
Yet, his pass-rushing abilities leave something to be desired. As Marcus Whitman pointed out, Faulk's pass-rushing tape doesn't scream first-round talent.
The Bengals could consider trading down for someone like Zion Young, saving draft capital while addressing their needs. While Faulk's run-stopping prowess is undeniable, using a top-10 pick on him might not be the wisest move given the team's recent draft history.
Ultimately, Faulk's evaluation should stand on its own merits. His potential to shore up the Bengals' defense is clear, but whether it's enough to justify a first-round pick is the million-dollar question. If Cincinnati does decide to go with Faulk, they'll be banking on him transforming their defense, especially against the run.