Cincinnati Bengals 7-Round 2020 NFL mock draft: Building around Burrow

Round 2, No. 33 Overall: Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma

At the top of the second round, the Cincinnati Bengals could go in a number of directions. It’s evident that the offensive line needs some work, even with Jonah Williams set to be a core piece of it going forward. With A.J. Green likely out of Cincinnati after the season, it could be a prime spot to get a top receiver in this deep class as well.

Instead, the Bengals opt to go defense with this selection. The front seven looks a lot better with improvement from edge defenders Sam Hubbard and Carl Lawson, along with Carlos Dunlap still having an impact. It’s time that they round out the front seven with an impact player at the linebacker spot.

The Bengals haven’t had that impact linebacker since Vontaze Burfict was running the show and playing at a Pro Bowl level. Guys like Nick Vigil and Germaine Pratt (a 2019 draft pick) are nice role players, but they aren’t difference-makers.

Kenneth Murray can be that guy for the Bengals. He is a three-down linebacker who can do it all. He has the speed and the instincts to work sideline to sideline and to come downhill and make plays. He’s also a physical player and finishes tackles. Cincinnati would be lucky to have him.