The 2026 NFL Draft is in the books, and the Bengals’ blockbuster Dexter Lawrence trade stole the headlines. However, a third-round pick at No. 72 overall is drawing attention from analysts for a very different reason, not star power, but fit.

ESPN’s Mel Kiper recently highlighted CB Tacario Davis, suggesting what the Bengals had originally planned before the Lawrence deal changed everything. 

"Mansoor Delane was a popular match for The Bengals at No. 10 before the Lawrence trade, and while Tacario Davis in the third round isn't that level of premier cover CB1, he should be a solid option opposite DJ Turner II."

Kiper isn’t overselling Davis, though. He’s describing a clear, functional role the Bengals really needed filled.

Davis had 25 passes defensed and three interceptions in 37 college games with Arizona and Washington, including 15 pass breakups in 2023 alone.

At 6'3" with 33-inch arms and 4.4 speed, the Bengals had a legitimate need for depth at boundary cornerback, and Davis fits in as CB3 behind Dax Hill and DJ Turner II.

Bengals defensive coordinator Al Golden cited Davis’ length and lateral quickness as the tools that allow that versatility.  Assistant GM Trey Brown reinforced that vision, calling Davis "an outstanding prospect" who "checks the box" for size, athleticism, and press coverage ability.

This was definitely a targeted pick and not a consolation pick, as cornerbacks coach Charles Burks flew to Seattle himself for Davis's pro day. 

Is Davis a Potential Day-One Starter?

That focused approach says a lot about how seriously the Bengals take Davis. He isn’t coming in to sit and learn, as Golden made that clear. 

"He's ready to go. He'll be in the mix right away. He can play outside, he can play inside. We expect him to help on special teams, too," he added later.

Golden also mentioned his versatility against bigger pass catchers. 

"If you're playing Metcalf or some of the more athletic tight ends in the league, he can match up inside on third downs. He just gives us great versatility. Excellent press-jam player, lateral quickness, and the long-speed to match," Golden added.

Christopher Kokaliares from FanSided believes that Davis is a "traits-based" pick. His speed and wingspan allow him to erase mistakes, but he will need to refine his footwork and hip fluidity to handle the receivers in the NFL.

Do you think Davis will be a good addition to the Bengals?

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Written by

Abhay Bharti

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi