Top 3 rookies for the Cincinnati Bengals that could be very important in 2024
A lot of talent was added by the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2024 NFL Draft. Amarius Mims, an offensive tackle taken with the 18th overall pick, was one of the team's ten selections. Next season, all those first-year players will be clamoring for a chance to play. Of course, not everyone will grasp it, but some will for sure.
These three rookies have the potential to be major contributors to the Bengals in 2024.
#3 Tanner McLachlan, Tight end
The Bengals have a lot of depth at tight end right now. They signed Mike Gesicki in free agency and brought back Tanner Hudson and Drew Sample. Next, the team selected Tanner McLachlan and Erik All as TEs. Thus, throughout the summer, this will be one of the most interesting competitions on the team for the position.
McLachlan was chosen by the Bengals in the sixth round of the draft, and a lot of analysts—including Field Yates of ESPN—thought it was a value selection.
Given that Mike Gesicki and fellow draft pick Erick All are also playing for the Bengals this season, McLachlan is expected to be a member of something akin to the rare Cincinnati Bengals squad that relied on a true rotation of tight ends in 2023 (four of them saw playing time regularly).
McLachlan won't be guaranteed playing time in Cincinnati due to the depth of tight end depth on the roster. However, if he has a strong summer and proves to be Burrow's real objective, he might force his way into the starting lineup for 2024.
#2 Jermaine Burton, Wide receiver
The Bengals will need a replacement for Tyler Boyd at wide receiver, and rookie Jermaine Burton might be that player, even if Tee Higgins plays on in Cincinnati in 2024. The Bengals selected Burton in the third round of the draft to give Joe Burrow another weaponry and to create depth to the position after Burton had an outstanding collegiate career.
Burton has already made an impression during OTAs, and if his remaining summer is successful, he might be able to secure a starting position. Burton should have plenty of opportunities to make an impression even if he doesn't start right away. Burton should also benefit from opportunities brought about by his versatility.
#1 Amarius Mims, Offensive tackle
When it comes to Amarius Mims, it's a matter of when rather than if he'll establish himself as a key member of the offensive line, and that time may come during his rookie campaign. Expect significant snaps as soon as Mims is ready to play, as the Bengals selected him in the first round of the '24 draft with the goal of him being a major contributor for the foreseeable future.
The veteran colleagues of Mims are already very complimentary of the rookie tackle.
Mims is a question-asker, according to Orlando Brown. Methods, foundations. He is prepared both on and off the field because of how the league operates. He recognizes himself. He is approaching the idea that we will need to rely on him at some point this season with the correct attitude."
It's possible that the Bengals will need to rely on him at some point throughout the season. I hope he'll be prepared.
