Bengals stay local with Ohio State DE Sam Hubbard in 3rd round

The Cincinnati Bengals have selected edge rusher Sam Hubbard out of Ohio State in the third round with the 77th overall pick of the 2018 NFL Draft.

Hubbard was projected as a second-round pick but fell in the draft likely because of a slow 40-yard dash time. His strong performance in the three-cone drill showed the type of athlete he can be, however, and the Bengals got excellent value at the 77th pick.

Sam Hubbard Bio

Position: DE
School: Ohio State
College Experience: Redshirt Junior
Height: 6-5
Weight: 270 lbs

Strengths

• Good motor and finishes well. Plays to the whistle on every down.
• One of the most NFL-ready pass-rushers in this class and possesses a number of second and third rush moves if initial one fails.
• Quick, powerful use of hands to gain leverage over offensive tackles.
• Bends well and is able to set edge.
• Productive during every season of collegiate career.

Weaknesses

• Average athlete; lacks burst and explosion while rushing a step slower than college teammates.
• Multiple occasions when he beat opposing offensive tackles but couldn't wrap up quarterback due to being too high upfield.
• Doesn't have potential similar to other edge-rushers in this class, which may limit NFL ceiling even though his floor will be higher.
• Despite size, can struggle to gain leverage at point of attack.

Athletic testing