2012 SB Nation NFL Mock Draft: Round 2, Pick 53

With the 53rd pick in the SB Nation NFL writer's mock draft, the Cincinnati Bengals select Miami running back Lamar Miller.

Cincy Jungle explains: Even though the Bengals picked up BenJarvus Green-Ellis in free agency, offensive coordinator Jay Gruden wants another guy to really get the ground game going for the Bengals, which will hopefully open things up even more for Andy Dalton and A.J. Green. Green-Ellis can get the tough yards and can play in goal-line situations, while Miller, a perfect change-of-pace guy, has the speed to get around the edge and can be a home run threat every time he touches the ball.

The Cedric Benson era is over and since this is a 100 percent new team, they need another new running back. With Miller’s speed, Green-Ellis’ tough yards and with Bernard Scott and Brian Leonard in the mix, the Bengals could have one of the better running games in the AFC North. That running game, along with Green’s ability to make circus catches, will be Dalton’s best friend in 2012.

Dan Kadar responds: Because of the devaluation of the running back position, a team like the Bengals should greatly benefit in this year's draft. Like in this mock scenario, the Bengals will be able to find a cornerback in the first round and fill another need with their second first-round pick (whether it ends up being a lineman or linebacker). Then in the second round, like they've done here, they'll be able to find a running back. Either Miller or Virginia Tech's David Wilson should be available with this pick. Both are starter-caliber running backs. Even Washington's Chris Polk or Temple's Bernard Pierce would be good choices here.

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