Bengals have had a first-round pick every year since 1989 draft
NBC Sports • • general
Key Points:
- The Bengals have agreed to trade their 2026 first-round draft pick to the Giants in exchange for defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, marking the first time since 1989 they will not have a first-round pick.
- The last time the Bengals missed a first-round pick, the 1989 draft produced several Hall of Famers, including Troy Aikman, Barry Sanders, Deion Sanders, and Derrick Thomas, highlighting the unpredictable nature of draft outcomes.
- In 1989, the Bengals traded down from the 27th pick and acquired additional later-round selections, but their picks that year had limited impact compared to other top selections.
- The trade underscores the inherent uncertainty and risk involved in the NFL draft process, where many highly anticipated picks fail to meet expectations due to various factors.
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