The Bengals attacked their biggest weakness this offseason: the defense. After finishing near the bottom of the NFL in points and yards allowed, Cincinnati invested heavily in proven veterans instead of relying solely on rookies.
⭐ Biggest Move
The Bengals traded the No. 10 overall pick to acquire Dexter Lawrence II, one of the NFL's premier interior defensive linemen, then signed him to an extension through 2028.
Defensive Additions
Jonathan Allen (DT), Boye Mafe (EDGE), Kyle Dugger (S), Bryan Cook (S), Ja'Sir Taylor (CB). That is a massive talent upgrade on every level of the defense.
2026 Draft Class
Cashius Howell - EDGE, Tacario Davis - CB, Connor Lew - C, Colbie Young - WR, Brian Parker II - OL, Jack Endries - TE, Landon Robinson - DT. The draft focused on adding pass rushers, secondary depth, offensive line help, and developmental depth.
Offensive Continuity
The Bengals kept the core intact: Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, Chase Brown, Orlando Brown Jr. Joe Flacco returns as the backup quarterback.
S³ Analysis
This offseason clearly shows Cincinnati understood what cost them games. The 2025 defense allowed 492 points, 6,475 yards, 2,500 rushing yards, and only 21 takeaways. Adding Dexter Lawrence II, Jonathan Allen, Boye Mafe, Kyle Dugger, Bryan Cook, and Ja'Sir Taylor gives them a tougher run defense, a stronger pass rush, and more experienced playmakers in the secondary.
The offense was already capable of putting up points with Joe Burrow leading one of the league's best receiving corps. If the defense improves from the bottom five into the middle of the league, Cincinnati becomes much more dangerous.
S³ Prediction
Record: 10–7
Why: Elite quarterback play. Elite receiving duo. Significantly improved defensive front. Better safety play. Offensive continuity.
Biggest Question
Can the rebuilt defense come together quickly under defensive coordinator Al Golden? If it does, Cincinnati has the roster to challenge for the AFC North title. If the defense still struggles against the run or fails to generate consistent pressure, they'll likely settle into the Wild Card race instead.
S³ Overall Grade
Offense: A, Defense: B+, Coaching: B+, Overall Roster: A-
This looks like a playoff-caliber Bengals team and one of the more improved defenses in the AFC entering the 2026 season.
