Bengals Revel in Unique Offseason Advantage Over Rival Teams
The Cincinnati Bengals believe they possess a unique advantage in the upcoming offseason. With a strong offensive core led by quarterback Joe Burrow, they are optimistic about repeating their success. Head coach Zac Taylor and director of player personnel Duke Tobin plan to focus on enhancing the defensive unit.
Bengals’ Offensive Strengths
The foundation of the Bengals’ optimism stems from their offensive trio: Joe Burrow, wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, and wide receiver Tee Higgins. Pro Football Focus has highlighted their impressive performances, with Chase earning a grade of 90.1 and ranking fourth among wide receivers, while Higgins scored 80.1 and ranked 17th.
Joe Burrow’s Impact
- Burrow played only eight games in 2025.
- During his absence, the Bengals struggled, achieving a 1-7 record and ranking 25th in EPA per play on offense.
- With Burrow in the lineup, the team performed significantly better, posting a 5-3 record.
Defensive Challenges Ahead
Despite their offensive prowess, the Bengals face significant challenges on defense. Last season, the team’s defense ranked poorly until improvements were made late in the year. The decision to incorporate two rookie linebackers reflects a necessary in-season rebuild.
Offensive Line Improvement
A bright spot for the Bengals is their offensive line, which has shown marked improvement. As the best unit during Burrow’s time, retaining free agent Dalton Risner could solidify their success by keeping all five starters intact. This is a stark contrast to previous seasons when key players like Andrew Whitworth and Kevin Zeitler left the franchise.
Conclusion
Heading into the offseason, the Bengals know that their offensive strength gives them an edge other teams envy. If they can successfully address their defensive needs, they could be poised for a promising season ahead. The combination of a powerful offense and improved defense may set the Bengals up for future success.
