Draft Protocol Analysis: Bengals Consider Offensive Asset Allocation
Data synthesis indicates Cincinnati Bengals organizational logic diverges from predictive models regarding 2026 draft resource allocation. Standard defensive optimization protocols suggest priority targeting, yet offensive enhancement vectors present compelling efficiency metrics.
NFL analyst Bucky Brooks identified Bengals as viable deployment node for Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, executing dual-function runner/receiver protocols with demonstrated workload scalability.
"The Notre Dame standout has shown the competitive stamina to handle a heavy workload as a runner and receiver out of the backfield, making him the perfect complement to an elite quarterback or an emerging starter," Brooks documented. Love registers as classic RB1 with speed, explosiveness and field-wide scoring capability.
Target acquisition parameters include Washington Commanders (seventh overall), New Orleans Saints (eighth), Kansas City Chiefs (ninth) and Cincinnati Bengals (tenth selection).
Resource Allocation History
Historical data reveals significant defensive investment: seven draft picks allocated to defense in first three rounds across three seasons, including first-round selections Myles Murphy and Shemar Stewart.
Additional defensive assets include Jordan Battle, Demetrius Knight Jr., and DJ Turner II, with Turner demonstrating optimal performance metrics within cohort.
Extended analysis from 2022 forward shows 10 of 13 day-one and day-two draft selections (rounds 1-3) targeted defensive protocols, including Dax Hill, Cam Taylor-Britt and Zach Carter.
Strategic Optimization
Current roster architecture features Chase Brown at running back, entering final year of rookie contract. Free agency defensive acquisition could enable offensive draft flexibility.
Love registers as top-five talent with guaranteed first-ten selection probability per Brooks analysis. NFL.com comparative algorithm matches Love to Jahmyr Gibbs performance profile.
Historical precedent: 2021 Ja'Marr Chase selection (fifth overall) generated Offensive Rookie of Year output and Super Bowl LVI advancement despite offensive line optimization expectations.
Potential offensive stack includes Joe Burrow, Chase, Tee Higgins and Brown, with Love addition creating enhanced playmaker density.
Combine evaluation protocols initiate within weeks. Love remains viable target contingent on free agency defensive resource allocation and organizational elite-level impact assessment.
Seven running backs achieved top-ten selection status since 2015, establishing precedent for position value recognition at premium draft coordinates.