The needs are everywhere except quarterback, where Carson Palmer is signed through 2014.

Every position on the 29th-ranked defense must be addressed. The offensive line needs depth. And wide receiver can't be ignored because T.J. Houshmandzadeh's contract expires after the 2008 season.

Here's an early look at the Bengals' 2008 draft:

• Round 1 - Defensive end: With Justin Smith expected to bolt in free agency, the club needs an impact pass rusher to complement Robert Geathers. Smith (2 sacks) hasn't lived up to his $8.6 million salary as the franchise player.

Big C's projection: Ohio State's Vernon Gholston or Virginia's Chris Long. Gholston has the ability to shed blocks, maul the QB and blow up running plays. Long is a hard-try, technically-sound warrior with great bloodlines. He's the son of Hall of Famer Howie Long.

The top free agents: Jared Allen, Chiefs; Terrell Suggs, Ravens; Mike Rucker, Panthers.

• Round 2 - Defensive tackle: LDT Domata Peko has been a pleasant surprise as a fourth-round pick in 2006. Now he needs a run-stuffing, pass-rushing wide body next to him. John Thornton has one-year remaining on his contract, but his price tag ($3.5 million) could make him a cap casualty.

Big C's projection: Texas' Frank Okam. The Longhorns are known for producing top-notch defensive tackles, and Okam (6-5, 320) is in the mold of

Shaun Rogers, Casey Hampton and Marcus Tubbs. Okam is a big, mobile, space eater who stuffs the run and pressures the passer.

The top free agents: Albert Haynesworth, Titans; Corey Williams, Packers.

• Round 3 - Offensive tackle: The Bengals locked up their bookends - LT Levi Jones and RT Willie Anderson - through 2012 and 2011. But both are fighting knee injuries and may not be worth their $3 million salaries in 2008. The team needs to re-sign unrestricted free agent Stacy Andrews.

Big C's projection: Pitt's Mike McGlynn is an Eric Steinbach clone. McGlynn is very durable and versatile, having played all positions along the offensive line and not missing a game in three seasons. He's a tenacious blocker who serves as the Panthers' long snapper.

The top free agents: Flozell Adams, Cowboys; Jordan Gross, Panthers; Max Starks, Steelers.

• Round 4 - Safety: FS Madieu Williams is a free agent who will likely test the open market, and SS Dexter Jackson is Mr. Inconsistent. Rookies Chinedum Ndukwe and Marvin White have potential, but the club needs a playmaker to bolster the secondary.

Big C's projection: UTEP's Quintin Demps is a ball hawk who makes plays in centerfield. He's quick, athletic and shows excellent burst in and out of his cuts. Demps is also an explosive kick returner who will give the special teams a boost.

The top free agents: Mike Doss, Vikings; Ken Hamlin, Cowboys.

• Round 5 - Linebacker: The Bengals made a big mistake by not signing Landon Johnson to a long-term deal. He'll test free agency along with Caleb Miller, Lemar Marshall and Dhani Jones. The club can't count on David Pollack (injury) or Odell Thurman (suspension) returning.

Big C's projection: The Bengals can go right across the bridge and snag a tackling-machine in Kentucky's Wesley Woodyard. He's a speedy outside 'backer with the range and cover skills to play every down. Woodyard (6-1, 215) needs to add some bulk so he can hold up at the point of attack.

The top free agents: Lance Briggs, Bears; Karlos Dansby, Cardinals; Demorrio Williams, Falcons.

• Round 6 - Tight end. If the position hasn't been forgotten, it's at least been ignored. The team hasn't drafted a tight end since Matt Schobel in 2002. Hey, it's about time. Reggie Kelly is one of the NFL's finest blockers. He needs a pass-catching complement down the middle of the field.

Big C's projection: Louisville's TE Gary Barnidge is a strong receiver in a pass-happy offense. A good route-runner with soft hands, he has average speed but is seemingly always open. He's Brian Brohm?s go-to guy in the clutch.

The top free agents: L.J. Smith, Eagles; Eric Johnson, Saints; Marcus Pollard, Seahawks.

• Round 7 - Tailback. Rudi Johnson's 2008 salary ($3.2 million) could make him a cap casualty. With Chris Perry and Kenny Irons coming off injuries, Kenny Watson needs a mate. There's plenty of depth...and question marks.

Big C's projection: Ohio U's Kalvin McRae set single-season school records of 1,434 yards, 19 rushing TDs, nine 100-yard games and 294 carries. He doesn't have great speed (4.5) but is a quick, tough, instinctive runner, and a reliable receiver out of the backfield.

The top free agents: Michael Turner, Chargers; Jamal Lewis, Browns; Justin Fargas, Raiders.