2017 NFL Mock Draft: Jimmy Garoppolo Trade Impacts Early

player. 56. The Cincinnati Bengals have produced some really good defenses over the years under Marvin Lewis, but it’s always felt like something was missing. That final piston to make the engine reach top speed. One could argue it was a true middle linebacker. The Bengals have made due with sturdy players like Ray Maualuga but never a true star. What would getting one at that spot do for the defense as a whole? History shows it could be so much. <p>Reuben Foster may be the middle interior linebacker to come out of college since Luke Kuechly. He’s a throwback type of player who tackles everything in sight and has a seek-and-destroy sense. The guy can deliver some ferocious shots. He’s also quick, athletic and shows comfort in space when playing coverage. Put him next to Vontaze Burfict and behind that solid defensive line, it would become quite a front seven to deal with.</p>. ILB. Alabama. Reuben Foster . 9