Wyoming Linebacker Logan Wilson was drafted by the Cincinnati Bangles on Friday, April 24th. Wilson was the first pick of the third round, and pick No.65 overall of the historic 2020 NFL draft.
A native of Casper, Wyoming, Wilson played for defensive back for Natrona County Highschool. His redshirt year at Wyoming, Wilson started 14 games and was named Mountain West Conference Freshman of the Year. In his sophomore year, Wilson led the Cowboys defense with a team-high 119 tackles, eight for loss, one interception, and two forced fumbles. In 2018, Wilson led the Cowboys again with 103 tackles, 11 for loss, and two interceptions. As a senior, he improved his winning record with 104 tackles, 9 for loss, one sack, and three interceptions.
At the combine, Wilson ran a 4.63 for the 40-yard dash and bench pressed 21 reps. He had a broad jump of 121.0 inches and a vertical jump of 32.0 inches. He also ran the 3-cone drill in 7.07 seconds and the 20-yard shuttle in 4.27 seconds.
Coming into the draft, Wilson was given a prospect grade of 6.63, meaning that he is likely to start within his first two seasons, and was projected to go in the third round.
Wilson is one of the best linebackers of the 2020 class. His play recognition and agility allow him to play hard every down. His fundamentals allow him to fill gaps and make excellent tackles. His ability to play both MIKE and SAM linebacker will also be beneficial to the Bengals, who may use hi as an inside or strong side linebacking years to come.
Analysts believe that he will have a hard time adjusting to the play speed of the NFL but will likely start on special teams this season.
Analysts graded the Bengals selection of Wilson as a B- (the lowest grade of all Cincinnati’s picks). Wilson has a lot to prove to the Bengals organization with the Bengals selecting two other linebackers in the draft, Akeem Davis-Gaither of Appalachian State and Markus Bailey of Purdue. As well as Heisman winner Joe Burrow from LSU and wide receiver Tee Higgins from Auburn.
However, with a high placed pick in the draft, it is evident that Cincinnati saw something in him. With a little work and NFL playtime, Wilson will become a dynamic and valuable player to the Bengals.
