Cincinnati Bengals
· 2026-07-01
The Cincinnati Bengals are strengthening their defense after a disappointing 2025 season.
They finished with a 6-11 record, missing Joe Burrow for nine games due to injury.
The Bengals allowed the NFL's third-most points last season, losing Trey Hendrickson to free agency.
They responded by adding Boye Mafe and trading for Dexter Lawrence.
The Bengals' defense relies heavily on Burrow, going 1-8 without him and 5-3 with him.
They need to boost their pass-rush and pass defense.
The Bengals added Jonathan Allen and Cashius Howell to help with this.
The Bengals may still add another veteran defender, according to Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic.
They feel confident about their defensive roster but know there's room for improvement.
The Bengals are currently on a L2 streak and stand 16th in the American Football Conference with a 3-14 record.
Their next game is against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on 2026-09-13.
The Bengals can't afford another season with defensive failures.
They may add another free agent to fill in the cracks.
And the Bengals are hoping for a sharp improvement in 2026.
But they know it won't be easy.
So they're taking it one game at a time.
The Bengals are focusing on their defensive roster.
They're making big bets on Year 2 jumps from Demetrius Knight Jr. and Barrett Carter at linebacker.
The same is true at cornerback, where the group behind starters Dax Hill and DJ Turner is young.
A veteran with starts under his belt would make everyone breathe easier.
The Bengals are looking to quickly move on from their disappointing 2025 campaign.
They're hoping for a much different season in 2026.
The Bengals are currently preparing for their next game.
They're facing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on 2026-09-13.
The Bengals are looking to turn their season around.
They're focusing on their defense and making improvements.
The Bengals are hoping for a strong performance.
They're looking to boost their pass-rush and pass defense.
The Bengals are taking it one step at a time.
They're focusing on their next game.
The Bengals are preparing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
They're looking to come out on top.
The Bengals are hoping for a win.
They're focusing on their defense.
The Bengals are looking to improve.
They're taking it one game at a time.