The 2022 NFL Draft runs from April 28-30th in Paradise, Nevada, with first-round coverage beginning at 8 pm EST on April 28th. The Cincinnati Bengals hold the 31st pick after their Super Bowl runner-up finish.

While offensive line was initially thought to be the Bengals' primary draft focus, their recent free agency acquisitions may shift their attention to defense. Here's what to expect:

First Round (#31 Overall):

• Projected pick: CB Kaiir Elam (Florida)
• Elam allowed just 19 catches for 191 yards in 2021
• The Bengals have historically prioritized cornerbacks early (Kirkpatrick 2012, Dennard 2014, Jackson 2016)
• Elam has +160 odds to be selected in the first round

Second Round (#63 Overall):

• Projected pick: OL Jamaree Salyer (Georgia)
• Key attribute: Versatility to play multiple offensive line positions
• Provides valuable depth behind newly-acquired starters
• Salyer shares +10000 odds with 10 other linemen to be first OL selected

Draft Strategy: The Bengals' offseason offensive line additions give them flexibility to address defensive needs early while still adding line depth later. Their draft position at #31 makes specific targets difficult to project, as many preferred prospects may be gone.

Key Betting Odds:

• Kaiir Elam: +160 to be drafted in top 32
• Jamaree Salyer: +10000 to be first offensive lineman selected
• Elam: +10000 to be first cornerback selected

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