Cincinnati Bengals 2025 NFL Draft Odds: Will Loveland Be Their Latest Addition?

The Bengals may have won the offseason by securing contract extensions for Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase, keeping both star wideouts in Cincinnati. They also signed tight end Mike Gesicki to an extension, ensuring Joe Burrow has plenty of targets on his radar.

These deals sent shockwaves through the NFL due to the substantial financial commitment the Bengals have made to the wide receiver position. However, with the salary cap seeing a massive jump this offseason—and another significant increase expected in 2026—the moves make sense. Chase set a non-quarterback contract record with a four-year, $161 million deal, including $112 million guaranteed. Meanwhile, Higgins, who was initially franchise-tagged, eventually agreed to a four-year, $115 million contract with $57.5 million guaranteed.

With these core players locked in, the Bengals' draft board remains wide open as they look to address key areas for improvement. One potential concern is the status of defensive end Trey Hendrickson, who reportedly may sit out the season unless he receives a new contract or is traded. Hendrickson led the NFL with 17.5 sacks in 2024, making his potential absence a significant factor in the team’s draft strategy. While a trade is unlikely, his situation could still influence their selections. 

As the NFL Draft approaches and Bookies.com veteran oddsmaker Adam Thompson has put together hypothetical NFL odds on who the Bengals might select with their first pick.

This hypothetical NFL betting market is for entertainment purposes only and does not reflect any market that may be available on betting sites and betting apps.

Potential Bengals First Pick: Player Breakdown

Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan (+500)

A top-tier tight end prospect, Colston Loveland earned a "Year 1 Starter" grade from NFL Next Gen Stats. At 6-foot-6 and 248 pounds, he has the frame, catch radius, and instincts of a wide receiver. His route-running ability at all levels makes him a reliable target, though his base speed could use improvement. As a potential No. 2 tight end behind Gesicki, he could develop into a valuable asset.

Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State (+575)

Tyler Warren dominated the Big Ten and impressed at the NFL Combine. Standing at 6-foot-5 ½ and 256 pounds, he provides a big target. While his athleticism has been questioned, he still earned an "Elite" rating and a "Year 1 Starter" projection from NFL Next Gen Stats. Warren also won the 2024 John Mackey Award as the nation’s top tight end, making him a strong long-term solution at the position. However, his availability at Pick 17 is uncertain.

Malaki Starks, S, Georgia (+600)

A two-time national champion, Malaki Starks brings big-game experience and versatility. Ranked as the second-best safety at the NFL Combine, he has the tools and mindset to be a long-term starter. If available, he could provide an immediate defensive upgrade.

Walter Nolen, DL, Ole Miss (+600)

Walter Nolen transferred from Texas A&M and excelled at Ole Miss. A prototypical SEC defensive lineman, Nolen (6-foot-4) has the size and strength to anchor the interior. Graded as a “Year 1 Starter” by NFL Next Gen Stats, he offers strong pass-rushing ability and quickness off the snap.

Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia (+800)

Mykel Williams contributed to Georgia’s back-to-back championships. With a 6-foot-5 frame and 34 3/8-inch arm length, he has the physical tools to thrive as an NFL defensive end. While he isn’t an immediate replacement for Hendrickson, his experience under Kirby Smart makes him an advanced prospect compared to his peers.

Other Potentials

Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri (+850)

Regarded as a top-three wide receiver prospect, Luther Burden's availability at Pick 17 is uncertain. The Bengals' willingness to select a receiver in the first round is also questionable, given their current roster. However, Burden showcased elite playmaking ability throughout his collegiate career and solidified his status with a strong NFL Combine performance.

Mike Green, Edge, Marshall (+900)

A former Virginia player, Mike Green transferred to Marshall and finished fifth among edge rushers at the NFL Combine. Graded as a “Good Starter Within Two Years,” he brings a high-energy approach and strong physical instincts. However, at 6-foot-3 and 251 pounds with 32-inch arms (below the 33-inch standard for the position), size could be a concern. Conditioning may also be an issue, but that should improve with an NFL strength program.

James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee (+1000)

A potential Hendrickson replacement in the long term, James Pearce Jr. offers elite speed and power off the edge. Standing at 6-foot-5, he could add 10-15 pounds to his 245-pound frame. Ranked fourth among edge rushers at the NFL Combine, Pearce has the natural quickness and technical moves to develop into a dominant pass rusher.