The Cincinnati Bengals have been busy in free agency, but the big question remains: will these moves be enough to elevate their defense in 2026?
There's some uncertainty here. The Bengals are banking on Boye Mafe to step up at defensive end, replacing the duo of Trey Hendrickson and Joseph Ossai. However, it feels like they might need another addition at that position, whether through the draft or the next wave of free agency.
Bryan Cook is expected to be a significant upgrade at safety over Geno Stone, and Jonathan Allen brings a much-needed interior pass rush threat. But what about the nose tackle position?
Is T.J. Slaton the answer?
And are the Bengals really set on Barrett Carter and Demetrius Knight Jr. as their starting linebackers? So far, that seems to be the plan, especially after the latest updates from Bengals HQ.
The Bengals' official site gives fans a glimpse into the team's mindset, and it raises some eyebrows.
In a recent piece, Bengals writer Geoff Hobson highlighted Duke Tobin's roster-building strategy, which has sparked some debate.
"The signing of free agency's top safety in the Chiefs' Bryan Cook and the addition of pass rushers like Vikings defensive tackle Jonathan Allen and Seahawks edge Boye Mafe aim to support the development of players such as defensive linemen Myles Murphy, Shemar Stewart, and Kris Jenkins, cornerbacks Dax Hill and DJ Turner II, linebackers Demetrius Knight Jr. and Barrett Carter, and safety Jordan Battle. Tobin believes that continued growth from these young players is as crucial as the impact of the new free agents, envisioning a playoff-caliber defense in the making."
Hobson also referenced Tobin's season-ending press conference, where Tobin praised the progress of Myles Murphy and Jordan Battle in 2025. While that's encouraging, their breakout came when the Bengals were already out of playoff contention.
There's a risky assumption being made here, linking the progress of Murphy, Battle, and DJ Turner with the potential of Knight, Carter, and Shemar Stewart. Murphy, Turner, and Battle took until their third year to really shine. With the 2026 season being pivotal for Joe Burrow's future in Cincinnati, the team can't afford to wait until 2027 for Stewart, Knight, or Carter to hit their stride.
Another point to consider: 2024 second-round pick Kris Jenkins Jr. seems to have been sidelined with Allen's arrival, who will be sharing reps with veteran B.J. Hill. How does Jenkins fit into this picture, and how will his development be supported?
Questions abound, especially given that Knight and Carter were one of the least effective linebacker duos last season. If either had shown even average performance, a Year 2 improvement might be plausible. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case.
There's still time for the Bengals to address their need for veteran leadership at linebacker, with names like Bobby Wagner available and the draft approaching.
The messages coming out of 1 Paycor Stadium suggest the front office is largely satisfied with their current roster. We'll see how that strategy plays out.