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2016 NFL Mock Draft Version 4.0 – The Free-Agency Update

By David Harrison

Feb 8, 2016; San Francisco, CA, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell during a "Handoff to Houston" press conference at the Super Bowl Media Center at Moscone Center-West. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 8, 2016; San Francisco, CA, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell during a "Handoff to Houston" press conference at the Super Bowl Media Center at Moscone Center-West. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 28, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Louisville Cardinals defensive lineman Sheldon Rankins participates in a workout drill during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 28, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Louisville Cardinals defensive lineman Sheldon Rankins participates in a workout drill during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

56. . DT. Louisville. Sheldon Rankins. 24. player

For the Bengals, their biggest area of need is at the wide receiver position, but with Doctson and Coleman coming off the board prior to their pick, the best answer here is to take the best playmaker left who addresses a need.

Sheldon Rankins from Louisville is a quick and athletic interior lineman who can also play on the edge. Domata Peko’s skill set is dwindling, and placing Rankins next to Geno Atkins gives the Bengals a top-notch defensive line for 2016.

If needed, they can shift him outside and lose very little as far as pass rush and run-stopping ability is concerned.

He may not be the choice the team would have preferred, but he’s no consolation prize either.

Previously:  Corey Coleman – WR – Baylor

Next: 25. Pittsburgh Steelers

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