The Bengals entered day 3 with four picks, but after trading up in the 5th, they finished the day with only three.
Their first selection of the day was in the 4th round, 136th overall. They selected G Cordell Volson out of North Dakota State. Volson fits exactly what the Bengals and Frank Pollack look for in an offensive lineman. He is versatile, having played both guard and tackle, but with the Bengals, will likely be a guard primarily. As well, he fits the mould of a “glass eater.” Volson is tough as nails, and has the strength to anchor in pass protection, and pave nice lanes in the run game. Athleticism is solid as well. At this point in time, he still needs a lot of work on his technique, but he has starter upside.
The Bengals then gave up a 7th to jump from 168 to 166 in the 5th round. They selected S Tycen Anderson out of Toledo. Anderson is a smooth athlete. While I don’t think his straight line speed looked as good as he tested, he is still able to get around the field. Anderson is a downhill safety who spends a lot of time in the box. He has the strength and demeanour to make splash plays against the run. However, at this point, he is more of a liability in coverage. Unless he can develop his skills in that area, he will likely be a role player.
With their final pick, 252nd overall in the 7th round, the Bengals selected DE Jeffrey Gunter out of Coastal Carolina. He is an athletic player with a variety of pass rush moves that he uses to his advantage. His production was good, and he impressed at the East-West Bowl. He is a bit on the small side for an edge rusher, and does have his issues against the run. He seems like a fit to be a situational pass rusher at the next level.
Related: Bengals Select Cam Taylor-Britt in 2nd, Zach Carter in 3rd