Bengals think they found NFL draft’s best player at specific need

A solid trip to the NFL draft for the Cincinnati Bengals faded into the background due to the contract standoff with first-round pick Shemar Stewart.

But as a whole, the Bengals still think they came away with big improvements after nabbing guys near the top of their board at each of their selections.

Fourth-round linebacker Barrett Carter is a great example.

Scout Andrew Johnson told Bengals broadcaster Dan Hoard the following about Carter: “He was probably the best cover linebacker in the draft. He can run, change direction, and flip his hips.”

Carter’s skill in coverage wasn’t a secret going into the draft itself. Now, his talent arrives in Cincinnati at an interesting time as the Bengals look to recoup after the loss of Akeem Davis-Gaither.

It’s one part of remaking the linebacker room this offseason. Carter brings versatility and subpackage utility. Second-rounder Demetrius Knight Jr. can step in next to Logan Wilson with Germaine Pratt gone and free-agent add Oren Burks adds more veteran snaps and versatility, too.

This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Bengals think they found NFL draft’s best player at specific need

Bengals think they found NFL draft’s best player at specific need

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