Many analysts and experts anticipate that the Cincinnati Bengals will target a defensive player with their first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft—perhaps an edge rusher, a safety, or a cornerback.
But what if they chose to take a different route?
That’s exactly what happened in a recent one-round mock draft from Pro Football Focus, where each team made a surprise pick. For the Bengals, that unexpected choice was North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton.
Bengals make surprise selection of North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton in PFF one-round mock draft
Hampton has been steadily rising on draft boards after a standout three-year college career where he rushed for over 3,500 yards and 36 touchdowns. He earned First-Team All-American and First-Team All-ACC honors twice, and his skills make him a valuable asset for any team’s backfield — including the Bengals.
According to Pro Football Focus:
“Last season, Cincinnati ranked 27th in team rushing grade and 26th in yards after contact per attempt, underlining a clear need to strengthen the run game. Omarion Hampton from North Carolina excels at gaining yards after contact and could help bring more balance to the Bengals’ offense. With first-round buzz building around Hampton, Cincinnati might be the team willing to make a bold move.”
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While bringing in a running back to pair with Chase Brown would certainly benefit the Bengals, it’s unlikely they’ll use a first-round pick on that position. The team has several more urgent needs and is unlikely to invest early in an offensive skill player.
It’s still very possible Cincinnati takes a running back at some point in the draft, especially given the lack of depth behind Brown. However, that move would more likely come on Day 3.
As long as Joe Burrow is the quarterback, the Bengals will remain a pass-heavy team — a strategy made even clearer after the major investments in Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins this offseason.
Given their current roster makeup and team philosophy, targeting a running back early doesn’t align with Cincinnati’s approach — especially with Brown already showing he can handle a solid workload.
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