Stone Shields breaks down Mel Kiper Jr.’s latest 2026 NFL Mock Draft and what it could mean for the Cincinnati Bengals. From Fernando Mendoza’s rise to consensus No. 1 overall, to Arll Reese’s elite defensive upside, Stone walks through the top of the draft and the key quarterback, edge rusher, and offensive line storylines shaping the first round.
The focus then shifts to Cincinnati’s critical position at Pick No. 10. Could elite safety Caleb Downs fall into the Bengals’ lap? Would the front office consider trading up to secure him? Stone explains why Downs would be a franchise-changing defensive leader — and why landing him would be a dream scenario for the Bengals.
Plus, analysis of other defensive targets like David Bailey, Ruben Bain Jr., Sunny Styles, and Kaden McDonald, along with strong opinions on which prospects Cincinnati must avoid. Stone also dives into league-wide team needs, coaching situations, and how early picks by teams like the Raiders, Jets, Chiefs, and Commanders could shape the board.
If you’re a Bengals fan preparing for draft season, this is a must-listen breakdown of possibilities, pitfalls, and best-case scenarios at the top of the board.
OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:
Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds
Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/
The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424
Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062
The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522
513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr
