NFL Draft analyst calls his shot involving the Bengals and potential top-10 pick who’s now officially on their radar
The Cincinnati Bengals have officially brought in Miami EDGE Rueben Bain Jr. in for a 30 visit, and ESPN NFL Draft analyst Jordan Reid predicts he’ll be drafted right around Cincy’s first-round selection in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Miami defensive end Rueben Bain Jr. took a visit with the Cincinnati Bengals Friday, according to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport.
Bain is one of the best EDGE prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft. He previously met with Cincinnati at the NFL Scouting Combine, and defensive line coach Jerry Montgomery was present for his pro day workout at Miami.
The Bengals have let three of their DEs from last year’s roster leave in free agency. Trey Hendrickson has signed with the Baltimore Ravens, Joseph Ossai is with the New York Jets, and Cam Sample recently agreed to terms with the San Francisco 49ers.
Cincinnati has only signed one veteran, Boye Mafe, to account for those departures. It’s why drafting at least one is the expectation for the club.
According to one draft analyst, Bain could very well be in play for the Bengals.
ESPN’s Jordan Reid predicts Rueben Bain’s draft range
Bain is a great player on tape and has amazing production, but his 30.875″ arms are causing concern for teams drafting very high. The 21-year old may end up falling outside the top 10 in certain scenarios.
ESPN NFL Draft analyst Jordan Reid called his shot earlier in the week; predicting Bain will land between the No. 9 pick, and the No. 12 pick. Cincinnati picks No. 10, so the Bengals were obviously included in the prediction.
The Kansas City Chiefs, owners of pick No. 9, also met with Bain this week. The Dallas Cowboys, who pick No. 12, were also listed as a team that could “maneuver for” Bain in the draft, per Reid.
That range makes a ton of sense considering the concerns about Bain, and the clubs interested in him. Cincinnati’s interest looks very real, and if all goes as expected, he’ll be within range to draft.
Draft Bain yourself with the A to Z Sports NFL Mock Draft Simulator!
