ESPN insider reveals Bengals' most likely 2026 NFL Draft plans originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Cincinnati Bengals, after their big Thanksgiving night win over the Baltimore Ravens, are still in the playoff hunt. It's improbable, but not impossible, for the Bengals to make the playoffs still.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementBut, regardless of the outcome for the Bengals the rest of the season, their offseason plans will be imperative to capitalize on Joe Burrow's window alongside Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
For ESPN's Field Yates, their plan for the 2026 NFL Draft couldn't be clearer. With a defense ranked at the bottom of most statistics, the Bengals are most likely to "zero in" on defense in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Bengals predicted to draft defense in first round of 2026 NFL Draft
"I'm looking at three teams that are projected to pick high and have a quarterback in place: the Giants, Bengals, and Commanders." Yates writes. "... Cincinnati needs to address every level and position of its defense."
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementCincinnati's defense is ranked 31st in yards allowed per play this season, allowing 6.3 yards on every snap on average. That's not sustainable in any way and is a must-fix this offseason.
With Trey Hendrickson sidelined due to injury for most of the year, and Shemar Stewart in a similar boat sitting on Injured Reserve, the Bengals have needs on the defensive line.
More: AFC North standings: How Steelers, Ravens losses impact division race through Week 13
But, with Logan Wilson gone, and rookies Barrett Carter and Demtrius Knight Jr. struggling, the linebacker room is also a big need.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAdd on that the defensive backfield isn't playing well, with DJ Turner, Geno Stone, Jordan Battle, Daxton Hill, and others not being good enough. Whether it's a safety or a cornerback, the Bengals could use some help in the secondary.
Yates expects the Bengals will select a defensive player, whether it's a lineman, linebacker, or defensive back, in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
The defense has been the Bengals' weakness the past two seasons, and especially with Hendrickson likely on his way out, the defense is a must-add for Cincinnati this offseason.
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