"After there were a slew of mock drafts from NFL.com yesterday, ESPN.com's Mel Kiper Jr. weighs in with his first mock of the season. He has the Bengals taking Nebraska cornerback Alfonzo Dennard with the 17th pick and Miami (Fl.) running back Lamar Miller at 21.

Said Kiper of Dennard: "It says a lot about last year's draft that Cincinnati can put the focus back on defense with one of its first-round picks in 2012. Dennard is a solid, physical cover corner who would offer a talent upgrade in the secondary. The Bengals could go a few directions here, but after getting a decent year out of veteran Nate Clements, they should look at getting a younger player who can develop even as he helps early. Dennard fits the bill."

In the NFL.com mock drafts yesterday, Dennard and Miller were among the most popular picks for the Bengals."