With the Scouting Combine coming next week in Indianapolis, draft season is going to get very intense. That also means mock drafts are going to get more intense.

Over at The Athletic, the team beat writers got together to conduct their own first-round mock. In this instance, the Cincinnati Bengals, led by beat writer Paul Dehner Jr., get some long-needed help on the inside of the defensive line by selecting Walter Nolen of Ole Miss at No. 17.

Here's what Dehner had to say about the pick: "The Bengals have been searching for a disruptive interior pass rusher of the future for years. They took Kris Jenkins Jr. in the second round last year and nose tackle McKinnley Jackson in the third. With the lone proven and reliable veteran defensive tackle B.J. Hill a free agent, it's imperative to add to the position, and Nolen gives new Bengals defensive coordinator Al Golden an instant starter. Nolen is a prototypical three-technique disrupter who tore up the SEC last year and is noted for his relentless play style."

Even with the strong play of Hill, one could argue the Bengals haven't had a force inside since Geno Atkins. That could change if they land the explosive Nolen in the first round. Nolen had 6.5 sacks and two fumble recoveries for the Rebels last season. Opposing offensive lines could have a heck of a time dealing with Nolen and the reigning sack king Trey Hendrickson.

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