The Cincinnati Bengals are retaining their offensive core but must address a defense that ranked near the bottom of the league in 2025. With $53 million in cap space and key free agents like Trey Hendrickson, the Bengals face critical decisions to rebuild their roster and support Joe Burrow.
2025 Season Recap: A Year of Struggles
The Bengals entered 2025 with high expectations, having extended Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins to join Joe Burrow as the franchise’s offensive cornerstones. However, Burrow’s Week 2 injury derailed their season, leaving Cincinnati with a 6-11 record and a defense that ranked 24th in pressure rate and 30th in run defense success rate.
Even after Burrow’s return in Week 13, the Bengals went 5-3 but rarely looked dominant. Burrow, who ranked 13th in EPA per play among quarterbacks, publicly expressed frustration with the team’s direction. The Bengals’ defense, meanwhile, allowed the fourth-highest yards per attempt against the pass, underscoring the need for a major overhaul.
Cap Space and Contract Decisions
The Bengals enter the offseason with approximately $53 million in effective cap space, the eighth-most in the NFL. This financial flexibility comes after last year’s major extensions, leaving Cincinnati with a relatively clean cap sheet. However, the challenge lies in how they allocate these resources.
Key pending free agents include:
- Edge Trey Hendrickson: A critical pass rusher whose 2025 season was cut short by injury.
- S Geno Stone: A reliable presence in the secondary.
- Edge Joseph Ossai and CB Cam Taylor-Britt: Young defenders who have yet to meet expectations.
Hendrickson’s contract dispute turned into a lose-lose situation after he was placed on injured reserve in December. His 23 pressures and four sacks in seven games fell short of expectations, leaving his future with the team uncertain.
Defensive Rebuild: The Top Priority
The Bengals’ defensive woes were glaring in 2025. They ranked:
- 24th in pressure rate.
- 30th in success rate against the run.
- Fourth-highest in yards per attempt allowed.
Beyond the statistics, the Bengals’ defensive scheme also lacked aggression. They blitzed at the lowest rate in the league (17%), a trend that may continue if defensive coordinator Al Golden returns. The Bengals must address every defensive position, with edge rusher and secondary being the most pressing needs.
Offensive Line: A Lingering Concern
While the Bengals’ offensive line improved in run blocking (10th in run block win rate), pass protection remains a concern. Even with Burrow’s quick release, the unit struggled to provide consistent protection. If Cincinnati opts for a full reset, moving on from Orlando Brown Jr. could free up an additional $14 million in cap space.
2026 NFL Draft: Targeting Impact Defenders
The Bengals hold the 10th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, along with selections in the second, third, fourth, sixth (two picks), and seventh rounds. Their primary focus should be on defensive playmakers who can contribute immediately.
One standout prospect is Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State. Despite the safety position rarely being drafted in the top 10, Downs’ versatility—blitzing, coverage, and run defense—makes him a potential game-changer for Cincinnati’s struggling defense.
Fantasy and Betting Implications
For fantasy football, the Bengals’ offensive trio of Burrow, Chase, and Higgins remains elite. However, their success hinges on improved protection and defensive support. If Cincinnati fails to address these issues, their fantasy value could decline as the team continues to underperform.
From a betting perspective, the Bengals’ 6-11 record in 2025 fell short of their preseason win total of 9.5. Their 8-9 record against the spread (ATS) reflects a season of inconsistency, largely due to Burrow’s injury and defensive struggles.
The Path Forward
The Bengals’ offseason strategy is clear: retain their offensive core while aggressively addressing defensive deficiencies. With cap flexibility and a high draft pick, Cincinnati has the tools to rebuild. However, their ability to execute this plan will determine whether they can return to contention in 2026.
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