The Bengals went 6-11 in 2025 despite an elite offense led by Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins. The defense ranked 31st in total defense and dead last in rushing yards allowed per game (147.1).
| Round 1 | #10 |
| Round 2 | #41 |
| Round 3 | #72 |
| Round 4 | #110 |
| Round 6 | #189, #199 (from Lions) |
| Round 7 | #221 (from Giants), #226 |
Acquired extra 6th and 7th round picks via in-season trades of QB Joe Flacco and LB Logan Wilson. No compensatory picks projected.
Critical Needs
Lost both Trey Hendrickson (Ravens, 4yr/$112M) and Joseph Ossai (Jets, 3yr/$36M) in free agency.
DJ Turner II emerged as a Pro Bowl-caliber CB1 in 2025, and Dax Hill developed into a solid CB2 after moving from safety to outside corner.
The Bengals had arguably the worst linebacker play in the NFL in 2025.
Depth Needs
The signing of Bryan Cook (3yr/$42.5M from Chiefs) was a major upgrade over Geno Stone, who departed to the Bills.
All five OL starters return: Orlando Brown Jr.
Minor Needs
Mike Gesicki is the TE1 but functions more as a slot receiver.
Chase Brown is the established starter and Samaje Perine provides veteran depth.
- Lost EDGE Trey Hendrickson to Ravens (4yr/$112M) — massive loss of team's best pass rusher, elevates EDGE to critical need
- Lost EDGE Joseph Ossai to Jets (3yr/$36M) — second edge departure, only partially replaced by Mafe
- Signed EDGE Boye Mafe (3yr/$60M from Seahawks) — replaces one EDGE spot but still need another
- Signed S Bryan Cook (3yr/$42.5M from Chiefs) — directly upgrades safety, replaces Geno Stone
- Lost S Geno Stone to Bills (1yr deal) — addition by subtraction, Cook is a significant upgrade
Under DC Al Golden, the Bengals run a 4-3 base defense that emphasizes versatility on the defensive line. Full scheme analysis →
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