The Cincinnati Bengals are staring down a pivotal offseason, and the message is clear: the defense needs a serious overhaul. After a rough 2025 campaign that saw the unit struggle across the board, the front office has to prioritize getting things right on that side of the ball.
And while there are multiple areas that need attention-especially up front on the defensive line-one move that could pay dividends long-term is locking down cornerback D.J. Turner with a contract extension.
Turner, just 25 years old, is entering the final year of his rookie deal. But after the season he just put together, it’s hard to ignore the value he brings to the table-and the importance of keeping him in Cincinnati beyond 2026.
According to projections, a potential extension could come in around three years for roughly $42 million, which would average out to just under $14 million per year. That’s a significant investment, but one that aligns with the market for young, ascending cornerbacks.
And Turner has certainly earned that kind of consideration. His 2025 season was a breakout in every sense.
He recorded two interceptions and defended 18 passes-numbers that jump off the page, especially considering the Bengals’ overall defensive struggles. He also forced two fumbles, racked up 40 tackles, and allowed a passer rating of just 75.6 when targeted.
That’s sticky coverage, physical play, and ball production all rolled into one. For a defense looking for building blocks, Turner is exactly the type of player you want to keep around.
Compare that to fellow corner Cam Taylor-Britt, who’s projected to command a slightly higher deal in free agency-about $44 million over three years. While Taylor-Britt has shown plenty of promise, Turner’s performance this past season gives him the edge in terms of long-term upside and consistency. And with Turner still under contract for one more year, the Bengals have a window to get ahead of the market and avoid a bidding war down the line.
There’s no rush, technically. Turner won’t hit free agency until after the 2026 season.
But that’s exactly why this offseason presents such a prime opportunity. Getting a deal done now would not only lock in a core piece of the secondary, but also give the team some financial clarity as they look to rebuild the defense around him.
Duke Tobin and the Bengals’ front office have a lot on their plate this offseason, but extending D.J. Turner should be near the top of the list.
He’s young, productive, and fits the mold of the modern NFL corner-fast, physical, and disruptive. If the projected numbers hold true, a three-year, $41 million deal could be a win for both sides.
For Cincinnati, it’s a chance to secure a cornerstone. For Turner, it’s a well-earned reward for a breakout year.