NFL
Season Outlook:
Like many recent seasons, the 2025 Bengals were buried by two issues: defense and Joe Burrow’s health. They allowed 29 points and nearly 381 yards a game. Once their prized quarterback returned from a mid-season turf toe injury, it was too late. Cincinnati went 6-11 and missed the playoffs for the third straight year. Head coach Zac Taylor was retained, but he’s on the hottest seat in football. The Bengals made wholesale defensive changes all the while hoping Burrow can stay on the field.
What's Changed:
Although the Bengals saw pass rusher Trey Hendrickson bolt to division rival Baltimore, they countered by trading their first-round pick to the New York Giants for tackle Dexter Lawrence. More moves along the front seven occurred when Cincinnati added Boye Mafe and Jonathan Allen.
Bigger Role & Sophomore Breakout:
The recent cut of Tanner Hudson is an indication that Taylor believes in All’s ability even after missing last season with three ACL procedures. He should benefit greatly from Cincy's prioritization of under-center snaps and play action. Defensive lineman Shemar Stewart was barely able to show off his talents in 2025. The first-round pick started five games before a knee injury cost him significant time. Pairing him with Lawrence and Allen should allow him to get less attention and a better chance to be a disruptor.
Key Question: Is this Burrow’s last year in Cincinnati?
The extensions the Bengals handed out to receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins show a certain level of commitment in making the offense work. But the lack of significant upgrades has fans concerned. Burrow has been hinting at displeasure and it wouldn’t surprise many if the relationship between team and QB came to an end should the Bengals fail to get to the postseason.
Prediction:
The Zac Taylor and Joe Burrow eras end after a 9-8 record and another year out of the playoffs. Burrow is healthy enough to eclipse 4,000 yards passing for the fourth time and both Chase and Higgins continue to be elite pass catchers. Chase Brown shows why he’s one of the most underrated running backs with his dual-threat ability. The offense is not a problem. The defense still is. Cincinnati isn’t bad, but isn’t good enough.
X-Factor:
Being responsible for keeping Joe Burrow upright is about as important a task as any. The responsibility falls to the left side of the offensive line: Orlando Brown Jr. and Dylan Fairchild in particular. Cincinnati has ranked among the worst in pass block win rate for the last sixth seasons. Fairchild is more of a wild card entering his second full season while Brown is about to start his ninth.
Final Scorecard:
- Offense: 9
- Defense: 6
- Coaching: 6
- X-Factor Upside: 9
- Schedule Strength: 6