(Kelly Lambert/USA Today Sports)
The Cincinnati Bengals have been one of the biggest surprises over the last two seasons and with the type of offseason the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens have had–they seem to be in the perfect position to make a run at the AFC North next season. With the 2013 NFL Draft set to begin on Thursday night, the Bengals have a few different areas they could focus on, but the argument can be made they should focus on the offensive line with all of the questions surrounding Andre Smith.
One player that comes to mind–D.J. Fluker of Alabama.
This year’s draft class is filled with plenty of offensive lineman and Fluker is one of numerous players that has seen his draft stock rise over the last couple of weeks. Fluker showed plenty of potential during his time at Alabama and there’s no question he would have the chance to start as a rookie in 2013–which is why Cincinnati needs to strongly consider him.
As for Smith, the Bengals really aren’t sure what to expect from their first-round pick as they’ve failed to reach an agreement on a new long-term deal. The two sides still have time to work things out, but Cincinnati needs to approach the draft with the mindset of possibly needing a backup plan in case things with Smith don’t work out.
If Fluker is still available at No. 21–there’s no question the Bengals need to bring him on board for the 2013 season.
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