The Cincinnati Bengals aren’t getting much out of their first-round picks of late.
Dax Hill, the first-rounder from 2022, has yet to find a home in the secondary. Myles Murphy, from 2023, has yet to step up as a pass-rusher. Amarius Mims from 2024, at least, showed major promise, but he can only reach the lofty upside if he can remain on the field.
As such, the Bengals often go dramatically new routes in re-draft efforts. The latest example comes from Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder, who tabbed Murphy as the team’s worst draft pick of the last few years and instead has them taking defensive back Brian Branch:
“Coincidentally, this pick is a replacement for the other “bust” mentioned above, Hill. The Michigan product was drafted so high because he’s a defensive back who has safety and cornerback versatility, which is the role Branch has become a Pro Bowler in with the Lions.”
RELATED: Bengals, Shemar Stewart nuclear option includes 2026 NFL draft route
Hindsight is 20-20, of course. Branch, the 45th pick in 2023, made the Pro Bowl last year after putting up 109 total tackles. He’s totaled seven interceptions over two seasons, too, with 29 passes defended.
The Bengals still have big hopes for Hill now that he’s playing cornerback. But safety remains a weak point on the roster, as does the pass-rush not named Trey Hendrickson.
RELATED: Bengals standouts after mandatory minicamp includes surprises
This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Bengals’ flopping 1st-round picks called out in re-draft effort
Reporting by Chris Roling, Bengals Wire / Bengals Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
