It’s no secret that the Bengals’ 2024-25 campaign was disappointing. Having Joe Burrow healthy for an entire season and missing the playoffs is not a good look. There is a possible light at the end of the tunnel, though, the upcoming NFL Draft. That is where the Bengals have an opportunity to fix their lingering defensive issues.
After arguably taking too long to resign wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins to long-term deals, the front office has done little to nothing to improve their poor defense. Along with recent comments by Trey Hendrickson alluding to the lack of communication by the Bengals’ front office, it seems the priority is elsewhere, hopefully on the draft. Drafting is easier said than done, unfortunately. With so many players and positions to choose from, it can be difficult to find the right fit. Nonetheless, there are a few players that stand out.
The weakest aspect of the Bengals’ defense last season was the inability to get pressure on opposing quarterbacks. With the 17th pick in the draft, the Bengals have plenty of options. Among those is Mike Green, who has been getting tons of attention heading into the draft season. He led the nation in sacks and had an incredible 22.5 TFLs. If the team can add a player of that caliber, they should instantly improve.
The second round of the NFL Draft is tricky to predict. There is simply no telling which players fall and which players rise. Given the hire of Al Golden, though, it’s hard not to imagine the Bengals wanting to add Notre Dame talent. That brings up someone like safety Xavier Watts, a unanimous All-American, who led the nation with seven interceptions in 2024. Geno Stone and Vonn Bell proved to be underwhelming additions to the team last season, leaving the safety room bleak. Xavier Watts, much like Mike Green, has the potential to be an instant impact player.
If the Cincinnati Bengals are serious about winning, they must get serious about their defense. Wasting another season with Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins will not go over well. Hopefully, they recognize their shortcomings and do everything to make sure it ceases to continue. If not, only more frustration will follow.
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