If the Cincinnati Bengals are serious about tightening up their defense in 2026, they’ll need more than just internal development - they need a proven veteran presence. And with Demario Davis potentially hitting the open market, there’s a name that should be circled in red ink on their offseason board.
Davis, now 37, isn’t just hanging on - he’s thriving. He’s coming off a career-high 143 tackles, which is impressive at any age, but especially for a player in his late 30s.
That kind of production doesn’t happen by accident. It speaks to elite preparation, instincts, and a motor that still hasn’t cooled down.
The Bengals, meanwhile, are coming off a season where missed tackles and inexperience were all too common themes on the defensive side of the ball. For a team with playoff aspirations and a franchise quarterback already in place, the defense needs to catch up - fast. That’s where Davis could come in.
There’s also a key connection that shouldn’t be overlooked. Davis was coached by current Bengals linebackers coach Mike Hodges back in 2018.
That familiarity could go a long way in easing the transition, both schematically and culturally. Davis wouldn’t just be another veteran signing - he’d be a tone-setter with a built-in rapport on the coaching staff.
But it’s not just about what Davis brings on the field. His value in the locker room could be just as significant. Young linebackers like Demetrius Knight Jr. and Barrett Carter have shown promise, but they still need a guiding hand - someone who’s seen it all and can help them read plays before they unfold, adjust to offensive shifts, and carry themselves like pros week in and week out.
Davis has been a mainstay in New Orleans for the past eight seasons, anchoring the Saints' defense with consistency and leadership. Whether he’s ready to move on from that chapter remains to be seen, but if he does test free agency, Cincinnati should be ready to make a strong pitch.
Of course, it’s not just about fit - it’s about price. Davis won’t come cheap, even at 37. But if the Bengals want to stabilize their defense and add a mentor who can still play at a high level, this is the kind of calculated move that could pay off in a big way.
The question now is whether the front office is ready to make that investment - and whether Davis is ready for a new challenge in Cincinnati.