Bengals May Have Landed a Steal With ‘Most Unexpected’ NFL Draft Pick
The Cincinnati Bengals made several aggressive and unconventional moves in the 2026 NFL Draft as they looked to strengthen their roster for another Super Bowl run.
After addressing key needs in free agency and through trades—especially on defense—they continued upgrading through the draft. Prospects like Cashius Howell and Tacario Davis are viewed as potential contributors both immediately and in the long term.
However, the team also took some swings later in the draft.
CBS Sports analyst Ryan Wilson highlighted fourth-round pick wide receiver Colbie Young from Georgia as Cincinnati’s most surprising selection.
Bengals Take a Chance on Young
Wilson noted that while Young dealt with off-field concerns and an injury-plagued season, his film still showed significant promise. “He’s a massive target who excels in contested-catch situations,” Wilson wrote.
Those off-field issues likely contributed to his slide into the fourth round, but his physical tools and upside remain intriguing. If he can improve his ball security and limit drops, he could develop into a valuable piece of the Bengals’ offense.
Cincinnati already has top receivers in Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, but needed additional depth at the position. When Young unexpectedly fell to them, the Bengals decided the value was too good to pass up.
High Upside Gamble
Young stands out as one of the strongest contested-catch receivers in his class, frequently using his size to outmatch smaller defensive backs at the catch point.
The pick represents a low-risk, high-reward gamble—something the Bengals could afford after addressing more pressing needs earlier in the draft and offseason. If Young reaches his potential, he could become a meaningful offensive weapon for Cincinnati.
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