NFL Mock Draft 2018: Complete first round after Week 13

A year ago the Bengals went all in on offense selecting Washington speedster John Ross and Oklahoma running back Joe Mixon. Both have been somewhat of a work in progress in 2017. This time they’ll work to fortify the other side of the ball.

The Cincinnati Bengals have two of the most experienced bookends on the defensive line in the NFL. Michael Johnson and Carlos Dunlap have a combined 17 professional seasons between them. They’ve been among the best at their craft for nearly a decade, but if they’re going to keep going for much longer they need someone to give them a breather.

Kansas State pass rusher Jordan Willis was a third round pick of the Bengals last year. Adding one more end could set the Bengals up at the defensive end position for another decade, especially if they elect to invest a premium pick in 2018. North Carolina State defensive end Bradley Chubb would be well worth the investment.

Chubb ranks near the top nationally in both tackles for a loss and sacks. The senior has posted back-to-back seasons with double-digit sacks and three straight years with 10 or more tackles for a loss. He’s a phenomenal pass rusher that has made his living in the defensive backfield and an easy first round selection.