Bengals predicted by NFC South scout to select Ohio State star DB with 10th pick

The Cincinnati Bengals own the 10th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, and there is a very clear direction to take with this pick: defense.

Whether it's a safety, cornerback, linebacker, defensive tackle, or an edge rusher, the Bengals need to go defense. At 10th overall, there should be some intriguing options available, though one player stands out as the ideal pick.

ESPN's Matt Miller shared that an NFC South scout predicted the Bengals would select Ohio State's Caleb Downs with this pick. This prediction would give Cincinnati one of the best players in the draft without having to move up.

Bengals predicted to draft Caleb Downs by NFC South scout

"We'll take Caleb Downs," this NFC South scout said. "This might not be the biggest need, and safety isn't a premium position, but Downs is a premium player who is a culture-setting winner with the football IQ, work ethic, playmaking mentality, and drive to be great."

The Bengals need to add some tone-setters to the defensive side of the ball after losing Trey Hendrickson in free agency, and Downs could help change the vibe of the defense.

Cincinnati's defense was a major issue last season, and it was holding a strong offense back from making the playoffs. Adding Downs, along with their free agent additions of Bryan Cook, Boye Mafe, and Jonathan Allen, the Bengals should be a lot better.

More: Caleb Downs would be a perfect pick for Bengals at No. 10

Downs is a very fun safety prospect who's much more impactful than the average safety. He had two interceptions in every season of his college career, and two forced fumbles this past season to go with one sack.

While taking a safety early might not be the best use of resources, the Bengals at pick No. 10 are a perfect landing spot for Downs. They need overall defensive help, and Downs would be just that for this defense.

This NFC South scout is predicting the Bengals to take Downs with the 10th pick, and if such a prediction comes true, the Bengals would be exiting the draft with one of the best overall players regardless of position value.

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