2013 NFL draft buzz: Jonathan Cyprien visits with Bengals, Rams work out DeAndre Hopkins, and more

With just three days before the draft, the rumor mill is kicking into high gear. Let’s check out the latest news from Monday.

by Jon Benne

Apr 22, 2013, 11:50 PM UTC

Joe Robbins

The 2013 NFL Draft is just days away, and the rumor mill is now operating in overdrive. At this point, every team has been connected to every player, with little to go on other than the magical phrase “anonymous scouts.” Still, there were some interesting developments on Monday. Let’s go over the most relevant ones.

Jonathan Cyprien has private workout with Bengals

The Bengals are on the search for a strong safety alongside Reggie Nelson, and the former Florida International star could fit the bill. Kenny Vaccaro, the top ranked safety, is expected to be long gone by the time the Bengals pick at No. 21, but Cyprien isn't too far behind him.

More: Cincy Jungle: Mike Zimmer holding private workout with Jonathan Cyprien

Saints, 49ers interested in Tank Carradine

Cornellius "Tank" Carradine's ACL recovery has been nothing short of astounding and, after an impressive personal workout, the San Francisco 49ers and New Orleans Saints have shown strong interest in the former Seminole. He's not expected to last to the end of the first round, which may be one of the primary reasons why the 49ers are looking to trade up to the teens.

More: Niners Nation Canal Street Chronicles

Rams held workout with DeAndre Hopkins

It's a poorly kept secret that the St. Louis Rams are drafting a wide receiver in the first round. They've shown strong interest in Tavon Austin, but it's looking increasingly unlikely that Austin will be available at No. 16. So St. Louis is looking at other options, including the sure-handed Hopkins out of Clemson.

More: Turf Show Times: 2013 NFL Draft: Have the Rams identified their receiver?

D.J. Fluker to be drafted ahead of Chance Warmack?

Chance Warmack has consistently gotten the most buzz out of the stacked Alabama offensive line this year, but teammate D.J. Fluker is quickly gaining hype of his own. How much hype? Enough that NFL.com's Daniel Jeremiah now believes that Fluker will be the first Alabama lineman off the board. Fluker may be the most dominant run blocker in the draft, but his inefficiencies at pass protection mean that he probably doesn't have a future at left tackle.