Bengals take OG Kevin Zeitler with 2nd 1st-round pick
COLUMBUS, OH - OCTOBER 10: Offensive lineman Kevin Zeitler #70 of the Wisconsin Badgers blocks against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium on October 10, 2009 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)
Posted: 04/26/2012
CINCINNATI - The Bengals took Wisconsin guard Kevin Zeitler with their second choice in the first round of the draft.
They needed a lineman after Nate Livings, their starting left guard each of the last two seasons, went to Dallas as a free agent. Right guard Bobbie Williams broke his right ankle in December and is an unrestricted free agent.
The Bengals had the 21st overall pick, but traded it to New England for the 27th pick and an extra choice in the third round.
The Bengals chose cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick from Alabama with the 21st overall pick in the opening round, addressing one of their biggest needs. He's the third cornerback chosen as Cincinnati's top pick in the last seven years, along with Johnathan Joseph (2006) and Leon Hall (2007).
"We covered a couple of needs for now and future," said Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis.
Bengals long-time offensive line coach Paul Alexander said Zeitler will play primarily right guard and backup center.
"His greatest strength is he's productive. He has enough size and versatility," said Alexander.
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