Cincinnati Bengals
· 2026-06-29
The Cincinnati Bengals are expected to win 10 games in the 2026 season, a significant improvement from their 6-11 record in 2025.
The Bengals endured an up-and-down season, losing Joe Burrow to a turf toe injury in Week 2 and struggling to recover.
They finished with a 6-11 record and missed the playoffs, despite Burrow's strong return in December with 15 touchdowns in the final six games.
The team's defense was a major issue, allowing an average of 28.9 points per game, ranking 31st in the league.
To address this, the Bengals traded for All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence and signed defensive end Boye Mafe, defensive tackle Jonathan Allen, and safeties Bryan Cook and Kyle Duggar.
The Bengals have an easy path in 2026 with the third-easiest strength-of-schedule league-wide, according to Sharp Football Analysis.
They will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 13, 2026, and have a favorable schedule with only five games against 2025 playoff teams.
The Bengals are currently standing 16th in the American Football Conference with a 3-14 record, on a two-game losing streak.
Joe Burrow will be key to the team's success, and with wide receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, the Bengals have a strong offense.
The team's running back, Chase Brown, is also becoming a dangerous weapon out of the backfield.
The Bengals' defense will need to improve significantly if they want to make a push for the playoffs.
With their new additions, the team is hopeful that they can turn their season around and make a run for the Super Bowl.
The Bengals' schedule includes a home matchup with the Chiefs and road matchups against the Dolphins and Commanders.
They will also face the Steelers twice, which will be crucial games in the AFC North.
The team's success will depend on Joe Burrow's health and the performance of their new defensive players.
If the Bengals can stay healthy and play to their potential, they could be a formidable team in the AFC.
The Bengals' fans are hopeful that this season will be different and that the team can make a deep run in the playoffs.
The team's first game against the Buccaneers will be a good test of their strength and will give them an idea of what to expect for the rest of the season.