The Cincinnati Bengals found themselves grappling with defensive challenges in 2025, largely due to the inexperience of their linebackers. With rookies Demetrius Knight Jr. and Barrett Carter taking on starting roles, the learning curve proved steep, and the results were less than stellar.
Knight and Carter faced significant hurdles, raising questions about their readiness for the NFL stage. While Carter’s performance might be expected given his fourth-round draft status, Knight, a second-round pick, struggled to meet expectations.
The Bengals are in clear need of bolstering their linebacker corps. One potential solution lies in the free agency market, where a high-caliber linebacker like Tremaine Edmunds could make a significant impact. Edmunds, a two-time Pro Bowler, has been given permission by the Chicago Bears to seek a trade as he approaches the final year of his contract.
Acquiring Edmunds would be a strategic move for Cincinnati, even with his $15 million cap hit for 2026. This aligns with Bengals' director Duke Tobin's vision of making decisive moves to strengthen the team. Edmunds' stats from 2025 speak volumes: four interceptions, an 87.2 passer rating allowed, ranking as PFF's 16th-best linebacker in run defense, and a mere 8.8% missed tackle rate.
Comparatively, Carter's numbers highlight the gap: one interception, a 114.6 opponent passer rating, ranked 83rd out of 93 in run defense, and a 14.8% missed tackle rate. The difference in performance underscores why Edmunds would be a valuable addition.
With Edmunds actively seeking a trade, the Bears' leverage is limited, potentially allowing the Bengals to acquire him without sacrificing high draft picks. Edmunds' experience and leadership could provide a much-needed boost to the Bengals' defense.
As Edmunds approaches his 28th birthday with eight solid NFL seasons behind him, he represents a seasoned option that could stabilize Cincinnati’s defense. Meanwhile, Knight, with only one challenging season, will need to continue his development.
The Bengals' strategy in the upcoming draft could further shape their defensive future. It will be intriguing to see if they opt for experienced talent or continue to develop young prospects. Stay tuned to see how the Bengals navigate this pivotal offseason!