After a challenging 2025 season, the Cincinnati Bengals are gearing up for a comeback. Last year was riddled with setbacks, from injuries to inconsistent performances, preventing the team from showcasing their true potential. While there were glimpses of improvement towards the end, it's clear that some issues need addressing.
The defense, in particular, was a glaring concern. Struggling to contain even the league's less formidable offenses, the Bengals' defensive unit often found itself overwhelmed. It's time for some changes, and this offseason will be crucial in deciding which free agents to retain and which to part ways with.
Trey Hendrickson, the standout pass-rusher, is the most significant free agent this offseason. With previous contract disputes, he's set to explore the market. Retaining Hendrickson is a top priority for the Bengals, but it won't be easy.
Other defensive players entering free agency include safety Geno Stone, whose tenure with Cincinnati has been marked by tackling woes, and cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt, who struggled to maintain his early promise. Pass rushers Cam Sample and Joseph Ossai will also be testing the waters.
Offensively, quarterback Joe Flacco, who stepped in for Joe Burrow during his injury, headlines the list of free agents. Tight end Noah Fant, offensive linemen Cordell Volson and Dalton Risner, and restricted free agent quarterback Jake Browning are also on the list, making it a busy offseason with 15 free agents in total.
Geno Stone's tackling issues were a recurring theme, culminating in a critical missed tackle in Week 9 against the Bears. With Jordan Battle showing promise as the other safety, the Bengals might be better off without Stone moving forward.
Cameron Taylor-Britt, once seen as a cornerstone for the defense, saw a decline in his performance last season. Allowing a 67.9% completion rate when targeted, he was eventually benched. With a projected market value of $9 million, the Bengals face a tough decision on whether to retain him at that price.
The Bengals' pass-rush woes were evident, especially with Hendrickson sidelined. Joseph Ossai, despite improvements, hasn't made a significant impact, and his projected contract might be too steep for his current level of production. With Myles Murphy's emergence and a top-10 draft pick on the horizon, the team could consider moving on from Ossai.
As the Bengals navigate this pivotal offseason, they'll need to make strategic decisions to address their defensive shortcomings and bolster their roster for the upcoming season.