Bengals Team Notes

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Cincinnati Bengals LB Germaine Pratt requests trade

Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt has requested a trade.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported the news on Wednesday, citing the departure of former coordinator Lou Anarumo as one of the reasons involved in the request.

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor fired Anarumo after this past season’s struggles on the defensive side of the ball. He hired Al Golden, bringing back the former linebackers coach who oversaw Pratt and Logan Wilson during the team’s Super Bowl run a few seasons ago.

RELATED: Bengals QB Joe Burrow makes a promise to Caitlin Clark

Before the Bengals made any coaching changes, Pratt seemed like a cut candidate due to his $7.9 million cap hit in 2025 and tackling issues this past season.

The Bengals might attempt to honor the request but could find a so-so market given the above. They’ll move forward with Wilson and potentially new arrivals at the position.

More Latest News!​

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Bengals have big silver lining in Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins contract sagas​

Bengals WR Jermaine Burton in the news for the wrong reasons again​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/12/cincinnati-bengals-germaine-pratt-requests-trade/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Cincinnati Bengals QB trade idea surfaces from NFL analyst

When it comes to acting as trade block sellers this offseason, the Cincinnati Bengals don’t have much going for them.

Tee Higgins getting franchise-tagged for a second offseason before a tag-and-trade scenario is extremely unlikely. Possible departures like Sam Hubbard won’t generate a ton of interest, making such a move also unlikely.

But a new idea has emerged — dishing Jake Browning to a team like the New York Giants.

Sports Illustrated’s Conor Orr just suggested the idea, writing that after the Giants use a top-five pick on a rookie quarterback of the future, they should call the Bengals about Browning:

While I feel the Giants suffer a bit in the way the Falcons did—so much perceived talent but real holes at foundational spots that are overlooked—this is the season where it all must come together, or fall apart. What would I do? Use my extra fourth-round draft pick and see if I can pry Jake Browning out of Cincinnati, giving Ward some time to sit in Year 1. Eventually, for Daboll to succeed, he’s going to need the dynamism of a running quarterback.

RELATED: Bengals QB Joe Burrow makes a promise to Caitlin Clark

It’s easy to handwave this one as not happening and move on to other things. Joe Burrow has that pesky injury history, and Browning was serviceable in an overhauled offense while playing in his place. Hence the Bengals rewarding him with a multi-year extension when they didn’t have to.

That said, Burrow just had a fully healthy season and the team might always want to do right by Browning if it means trading him somewhere that gives him a chance to start again.

There’s something to be said about having one of the best backups in the NFL while in win-now mode. But Cincinnati’s wealth of needs across the roster might just encourage them to entertain the idea of extra draft picks if a team like the Giants comes calling about Browning.

More Latest News!​

Optimized mock draft has Tee Higgins leaving, Bengals scrambling for replacement​

Bengals send disgruntled superstar to Bears in offseason trade predictions​

Cincinnati Bengals LB Germaine Pratt requests trade​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/13/cincinnati-bengals-qb-trade-idea-nfl-analyst/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

NFL GM says Joe Burrow is not going to be happy with Bengals after this offseason

The Cincinnati Bengals are currently under assault from all sides, an attack spearheaded by quarterback Joe Burrow himself.

Burrow just had another extensive interview—this time a lengthy podcast—in which he detailed ways he is willing to re-do his contract and his overall cap knowledge while imploring the Bengals to find ways to keep key players.

Those key players, of course, are once again Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, Trey Hendrickson and Mike Gesicki.

But Burrow isn’t alone. One doesn’t have to look far to see fans taking a similar stance while those around the league cast doubt on the situation.

Jason La Canfora of the Washington Post, for example, spoke with anonymous NFL executives who don’t think Burrow is going to be too happy:

“Burrow is going to be pissed,” a second GM predicted. “No way they are keeping more than two of those four.” Multiple executives I spoke with predicted Higgins will land at least $30 million per season.

RELATED: Bengals QB Joe Burrow makes a promise to Caitlin Clark

Reports have certainly suggested that Higgins will land in the $30 million APY range if he slips to the open market. But the Bengals can apply a second franchise tag to prevent that and it remains to be seen if he actually wants those numbers while staying in town.

Hendrickson, meanwhile, has an extend-or-trade stance, with the team already admitting he’s earned a raise.

Chase is a mere formality at this point, provided they can get the structure and payouts right. Gesicki could be the latest tight end to get the Burrow bump and land massive cash on the open market.

Keeping all four is possible, though the exec’s stance certainly isn’t unwarranted. It would require a few of the players involved making sacrifices and the team leaving its comfort zone in new ways to keep the franchise quarterback happy.

More Latest News!​

Joe Burrow home burglary case gets several key updates​

Cincinnati Bengals QB trade idea surfaces from NFL analyst​

Optimized mock draft has Tee Higgins leaving, Bengals scrambling for replacement​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/13/nfl-gm-joe-burrow-not-happy-bengals-offseason/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Cincinnati Bengals projected as fit for $20M per year star free agent

The Cincinnati Bengals have some tough decisions to make in free agency this offseason beyond the highlight of wideout Tee Higgins.

Cincinnati has a few notable defenders heading to the open market who feel like coin flips as to whether they return. Think, B.J. Hill, Joseph Ossai and Mike Hilton — and that’s before considering Germaine Pratt’s trade request.

The Bengals could always look to massage some of those possible losses with outside free agents though. The 33rd Team’s Marcus Mosher just provided the perfect example while listing the Bengals as one of just a few teams as a fit for Dallas Cowboys free agent Osa Odighizuwa:

He led all interior defenders in quarterback hits this season and is a force as a pass rusher despite less-than-stellar sack totals. He is on the smaller side for a defensive tackle, but teams prioritizing pass-rush ability and durability will fall in love with Odighizwua this offseason.

RELATED: Cincinnati Bengals QB trade idea surfaces from NFL analyst

The projected contract there is a three-year deal worth $63 million, putting him in the $20 million-per-year range.

It’s not all that outlandish for the Bengals to consider, either. Hill is hitting that age of 30 that the Bengals don’t like to pay up for and projections put him at roughly $9 million per year on his next deal.

While the Bengals have to pay up big on a Trey Hendrickson extension, other linemates such as Myles Murphy are on rookie deals and Sheldon Rankins and Sam Hubbard are cut candidates. It isn’t that hard to see the team sliding some of the cap savings to an outside addition like Odighizuwa, especially after the linebackers and overall defense were so exposed after losing DJ Reader in the middle.

Odighizuwa isn’t Reader, but he would give the line more versatility and burst. At 26 years old, he’s certainly one to watch if the Bengals want to be buyers.

More Latest News!​

This mystery team seems most desperate to steal Tee Higgins from Bengals​

Joe Burrow relentlessly jabbing Bengals to get this offseason right​

NFL GM says Joe Burrow is not going to be happy with Bengals after this offseason​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/20...s-projected-fit-20m-per-year-star-free-agent/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

NFL analyst: Joe Burrow needs to see Bengals 'chasing championships'

No team faces a more critical offseason in 2025 than the Cincinnati Bengals.

It’s a statement that certainly rings true, with the franchise quarterback making the media rounds and putting pressure on the front office as often as he can.

That media tour, by the way, focuses on the team’s ability to extend Ja’Marr Chase while also keeping Trey Hendrickson and Tee Higgins, among others.

Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer is the latest to say no other team faces a turning point quite like this — because the long-term ramifications could be so huge:

The underlying thing here? Burrow’s priority is chasing championships. As long as the Bengals show they’ll provide the resources to put him in that position consistently, everything will be fine. So they should do that, rather than find out what happens if they don’t.

RELATED: Cincinnati Bengals QB trade idea surfaces from NFL analyst

Yes, the team’s ability to actually contend in 2025 hinges on whether the Bengals actually listen to Joe Burrow, leave their comfort zone and retain the core.

But for Bengals fans? The name Carson Palmer comes to mind. Things aren’t even close to that point yet, but it’s easy to see how the front office making a few mistakes this offseason could kick off quite the domino effect.

Bengals fans shouldn’t quite enter panic mode yet, though. The Chase extension seems a given. And the team’s steady modernization over the years could equate to this offseason being the one they really leave some comfort zones to keep Burrow happy.

More Latest News!​

Bengals' top trade partners for Germaine Pratt listed by NFL analyst​

Cincinnati Bengals projected as fit for $20M per year star free agent​

This mystery team seems most desperate to steal Tee Higgins from Bengals​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/20...ee-bengals-chasing-championships-nfl-analyst/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Colin Cowherd swears Joe Burrow will demand trade from Bengals

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow recently sat down for a lenghty podcast that included his remarks about the team’s cap situation and how his contract can be changed to help the team afford other expensive extensions.

Some, though, aren’t buying that the Bengals will actually follow Burrow’s advice on these cap matters.

Colin Cowherd appeared on “The Herd” recently and shredded the idea that the Bengals belong in the same conversation as Philadelphia, even saying that Burrow will end up requesting a trade.

“They don’t have a real GM. Eagles have like one of the best, if not the best, and two assistant GMs,” Cowherd said. “Eagles have 21 scouts on their website, we looked. Bengals have four. So Joe Burrow, to some degree, is trapped. Think about this, I’ll say this. I absolutely think at some point he’ll demand to be traded. I really believe that. It’s very hard to miss the playoffs when you have a great quarterback. One team that happened this year: Cincinnati. It’s virtually impossible. Forty percent of the league goes to the playoffs. If you have a great quarterback in a quarterback league, you’re going to the playoffs.”

RELATED: Cincinnati Bengals QB trade idea surfaces from NFL analyst

It’s a little hyperbolic and dramatic, yet not totally unfounded, either. The name Carson Palmer has started to pop up in the minds of the Bengals fans for a reason.

If the Bengals botch this offseason and struggling to keep all of, if not most of Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, Trey Hendrickson and Mike Gesicki, things really could still start to trend in that direction.

But that’s a big if at this point. The cap space is there, provided the Bengals are willing to leave their comfort zone a little in terms of contract structure and overall cash spend.

Right now, one can only presume the Bengals front office sees what everyone else does and won’t mess this up.

More Latest News!​

Zac Taylor's Rams connection has Bengals mentioned alongside Cooper Kupp again​

Bengals tabbed fit for Saints star on NFL trade block big board​

NFL analyst: Joe Burrow needs to see Bengals 'chasing championships'​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/20...-swears-joe-burrow-will-demand-trade-bengals/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Will Bengals cut Geno Stone as defensive overhaul begins?

The Cincinnati Bengals defense could look much different in 2025.

With new defensive coordinator Al Golden inbound, one of the team’s most obvious cut candidates — Germaine Pratt — has already requested a trade.

It’s safe to wonder if a guy not much farther down that list like Geno Stone might be next.

Stone was Cincinnati’s latest attempt to fill the All-Pro void created when the team let Jessie Bates get away. That attempt came after first-rounder Dax Hill gave it a shot before switching to cornerback.

By most metrics available to outsiders, Stone flopped, and moving on would save the Bengals roughly $6.5 million in cap space.

RELATED: Cincinnati Bengals QB trade idea surfaces from NFL analyst

But many things influence such a decision. Stone’s play, like much of the overall unit, took an upswing last year when the defense got “simplified” down the stretch.

If Golden and Co. feel like that’s a sign of things to come if coordinated properly and with upgrades to the trenches, it’s easy to see them giving Stone another shot and seeing if he can produce some of that play from his Baltimore days that had them interested in him in the first place.

One also has to consider how feasible it might be to just go and get another rangy safety. It’s a mark in Stone’s favor that he has a year in the program now, which matters when the team is firmly in win-now mode and can’t necessarily wait for a newcomer or even rookie to develop.

Still, Stone having a top-10 cap hit in 2025 looks odd, all things considered. The guy behind him on the list (Pratt) is likely gone, as are the guys just in front of him on the list (Alex Cappa, Sam Hubbard, Sheldon Rankins).

If the Bengals make a move with Stone (and those guys), it figures to happen soon.

More Latest News!​

Bengals rebuild defense in latest NFL mock draft​

Colin Cowherd swears Joe Burrow will demand trade from Bengals​

Zac Taylor's Rams connection has Bengals mentioned alongside Cooper Kupp again​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/16/will-bengals-cut-geno-stone-defensive-overhaul-begins/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Bengals boldly predicted to get even worse on defense in 2025

It’s fair to think the only way the Cincinnati Bengals defense can go in 2025 is up.

Those Bengals, after all, figure to make notable talent upgrades across all three levels of the defense. The arrival (return, really) of Al Golden as coordinator could help. Scheme differences, no matter how small, will have an impact, as will finding a way to clamp down on the tackling issues.

But it seems not everyone is convinced. Pro Football Network’s Kyle Soppe just made bold predictions for 2025 and his note about the Bengals suggests the unit will get even worse:

Ultimately, as porous as the Bengals’ defense was in 2024, it’s more alarming when you realize they reached that with a Defensive Player of the Year-caliber season. Without a repeat performance from Hendrickson on top of uncertainty at the coordinator spot, the Bengals can sink lower in 2025.

RELATED: Cincinnati Bengals QB trade idea surfaces from NFL analyst

Much of the concern in the writeup seems to hinge on Trey Hendrickson, which is totally fair — he just gave the team an extend-or-trade ultimatum.

Production-wise, though, the Bengals shouldn’t need a DPOTY campaign from Hendrickson each and every season just to field a bottom-five defense.

On paper, names such as former first-rounder Myles Murphy should be helping produce a more well-rounded pass rush each week. Ideally, the middle of the line improves, too, while the secondary enjoys some better injury luck and remains digestible enough that the coordinator doesn’t have to simplify the scheme in December.

Provided the Bengals can lock down the Hendrickson contract situation, a do-over with notable personnel changes that seem guaranteed should produce a better unit in 2025.

More Latest News!​

Bengals defenders looking forward to specific coaching changes​

Will Bengals cut Geno Stone as defensive overhaul begins?​

Bengals rebuild defense in latest NFL mock draft​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/16/bengals-boldly-predicted-even-worse-defense-2025/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Latest Bengals, Tee Higgins update provides the expected news

The Cincinnati Bengals, after seeing the full-court press from Joe Burrow for months, weren’t likely to let Tee Higgins get away — even if it meant a second franchise tag.

Monday, reports pointed to that second tag happening, too, with James Rapien of Sports Illustrated reporting the Bengals intend to use the non-exclusive franchise tag on the star wideout with the intention of getting a long-term extension done.

NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero followed up by reporting that a tag could happen between now and the March 4 deadline if a extension doesn’t happen.

RELATED: Cincinnati Bengals QB trade idea surfaces from NFL analyst

Notable from Rapien’s report is the note that “this year feels different” in regard to a possible extension for Higgins.

That certainly feels right for a variety of reasons. Beyond Burrow’s public demands, the fact the tag is at roughly $26 million — not that far off from Higgins’ possible AAV on the open market — helps.

So, too, does the fact the Bengals have whiffed on so many other players who could have potentially earned big-money extensions but haven’t, never mind the Jermaine Burton whiff.

As of now, reports of a second tag for Higgins don’t mean there are embittered feelings on either side or threat of a trade. More likely, a tag would be a way to keep Higgins from hitting the open market while both sides attempt to get an extension done.

Anything short of that, at this point, would be a colossal failure — just ask the franchise quarterback.

More Latest News!​

Bengals can use franchise tag on Tee Higgins starting Tuesday​

Cincinnati Bengals luck into 7-time All-Pro in free agency projections​

Cincinnati Bengals veteran linked to Pittsburgh Steelers return​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/20...higgins-update-latest-provides-expected-news/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

AFC QB pitches Tee Higgins about leaving Joe Burrow, Bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals can officially place a second franchise tag on Tee Higgins this week and reportedly plan to do so if a long-term extension doesn’t gain traction.

Until then, speculation about Higgins leaving the Bengals won’t stop.

So much so that Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence just spoke on the idea with Kay Adams.

There, Lawrence was all smiles when chatting about what it would be like to reunite with Higgins, his former Clemson teammate.

“We played together for two years, had a lot of success in college,” Lawrence said. “We could definitely do that again.”

RELATED: Cincinnati Bengals QB trade idea surfaces from NFL analyst

The Bengals don’t plan on letting that happen. Barring a shocker, they will use the non-exclusive franchise tag to keep their options open, but otherwise block Higgins from the market.

Given Joe Burrow’s public campaign to keep Tee Higgins with Ja’Marr Chase, Bengals fans can expect some sort of news that will shut talk like this down pretty soon.

What’s Trevor Lawrence recruiting pitch to former Clemson teammate Tee Higgins???

“We played together for two years, had A LOT of success in college. We could DEFINITELY do that again.” @heykayadams @teehiggins5 @Trevorlawrencee @Jaguars | #DUUUVAL pic.twitter.com/unDtQYebGc

— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) February 17, 2025

More Latest News!​

Bengals reportedly aiming big to appease Joe Burrow's demands​

Latest Bengals, Tee Higgins update provides the expected news​

Bengals can use franchise tag on Tee Higgins starting Tuesday​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/18/afc-qb-pitches-tee-higgins-leaving-joe-burrow-bengals/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Bengals finally solve punter position with contract extension

After a few rocky seasons, the Cincinnati Bengals finally put an end to questions around the punter position.

Tuesday, the team secured Ryan Rehkow on a two-year contract extension.

Rehkow was a breakout player for the Bengals as a free-agent arrival last summer. He played all 17 games as a rookie, setting team records for gross punting average (49.1) and net average (42.9) in the process.

RELATED: Latest Bengals, Tee Higgins update provides the expected news

The year before that, the Bengals had searched for an answer and landed on Brad Robbins to mixed results. And the year before that, it was Drue Chrisman attempting to take over for long-time starter Kevin Huber.

In a mild upset, Rehkow arrived and made the most of his opportunity, creating the first solid outlook for the position entering a summer in years.

More Latest News!​

How much would it cost for Bengals to franchise tag Tee Higgins?​

Bengals' Germaine Pratt replacement could be 49ers free agent​

AFC QB pitches Tee Higgins about leaving Joe Burrow, Bengals​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/20...lly-solve-punter-position-contract-extension/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Bengals: Finding a 'best fit' in free agency means stealing from Steelers

The Cincinnati Bengals seem most likely to hit free agency for help on the interior offensive line in front of Joe Burrow this offseason.

That trend of somewhat throwing in the towel on developing rookies and going big on free agents that have already proven themselves started with Alex Cappa and Ted Karras, then looped in tackle Orlando Brown Jr., too.

With the former two names struggling last year, the Bengals could do the same. Right on cue, ESPN’s Matt Bowen has projected Pittsburgh Steelers guard James Daniels as a “best fit” for the team:

Cincinnati quarterback Joe Burrow was sacked 48 times last season, and the Bengals must upgrade at guard. Daniels tore his Achilles in Week 4, but he provides run-blocking upside when healthy. From Weeks 1 to 4, Daniels’ run block win rate of 82.7% ranked second among guards behind the Colts’ Quenton Nelson.

RELATED: Latest Bengals, Tee Higgins update provides the expected news

Back in 2018, Daniels was one of those guys Bengals fans really liked as a possible pick, but the team opted for Billy Price in the first round and Daniels fell to the second.

Since he’s coming back from an injury, Daniels projects to get a prove-it deal at best on the open market. That puts him as a possible value buy for a Bengals team that probably wouldn’t mind upgrading at least two of the interior spots right away.

More Latest News!​

Bengals finally solve punter position with contract extension​

How much would it cost for Bengals to franchise tag Tee Higgins?​

Bengals' Germaine Pratt replacement could be 49ers free agent​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/19/bengals-finding-best-fit-free-agency-stealing-steelers/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Bengals sound fated to pay up huge on Ja'Marr Chase's contract extension

The Cincinnati Bengals couldn’t get a deal done with star wide rececieer Ja’Marr Chase before last season and will pay for it this summer.

Pay for it, meaning somewhere possibly in the neighborhood of $40 million per year.

According to Fox Sports’ Jordan Schultz, the near-miss then means the Bengals pay up big now:

Ultimately, Chase chose to play and now Cincinnati is staring at the league’s first $40 million wide receiver. That’s right: Chase will command at least $40 million per season.

Luckily for the Bengals, they just got some good news with the latest reports on the surging NFL salary cap.

RELATED: Bengals reportedly aiming big to appease Joe Burrow’s demands

It will be interesting to see whether Chase and the Bengals actually agree to a $40 million APY or not, or whether this is just standard posturing during talks.

Chase will undoubtedly leapfrog Justin Jefferson to reset the market, but going so far over Jefferson’s $35 million APY would be a mild surprise.

While the big buzz continues to look at APY, the reports at the time suggested that guarantees and structure of payouts were the big issues between the Bengals and Chase last time they did this dance.

Even if the Bengals hit the $40 million mark, it remains to be seen whether they will guarantee past Year 1 and offer up the fine details to Chase’s liking.

More Latest News!​

Bengals cap space update after NFL gifts Cincy good news​

Tee Higgins' best fit isn't with Bengals, swears NFL analyst​

Bengals: Finding a 'best fit' in free agency means stealing from Steelers​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/20...-pay-up-huge-jamarr-chase-contract-extension/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Bengals' front office has team in danger of losing contender status

The Cincinnati Bengals have much to do this offseason in order to be considered surefire contenders in 2025.

While Joe Burrow (and fans) rightfully view the contention window as open for the duration of the star quarterback’s career, 2024 really put that to the test, considering he had an MVP-like year, a Triple Crown wideout and the NFL’s sack leader.

Hence, names like ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler only putting the Bengals as a “teetering” contender in his overhaul tiers:

What’s next: The Bengals’ threshold for spending will be tested more than any other team this offseason. Three of their top stars — Ja’Marr Chase, Trey Hendrickson and Tee Higgins — need new deals. Chase and Hendrickson are 2026 free agents who have no interest in playing out their current deals, and both can command well above $30 million per year. Heck, Chase might try to push for $40 million. Higgins, a free agent, will be difficult to keep, as many teams project him pushing the threshold of $30 million per year. And that’s not even counting the need to improve the defense at several positions that have aged or underperformed. It will be fascinating to see how the Bengals’ front office handles it all. At least it has money to spend, with more than $40 million in cap space. It can create more by releasing Sam Hubbard ($9.6 million) and Sheldon Rankins ($9.5 million).

RELATED: Bengals reportedly aiming big to appease Joe Burrow’s demands

We and others often describe this as the most important offseason in Bengals history for a reason.

It’s a pivot point — if they botch Chase’s extension talks and a holdout bleeds into the regular season again, another slow start is inevitable. If Higgins doesn’t get a fair deal and come back, how do they replace him? If they don’t keep Trey Hendrickson happy and move on, who replaces him? What sort of message does it send to the locker room (and future outside free agents) if they aren’t going to reward league-best players?

Those questions, plus general needed upgrades across the roster, have put the Bengals in a tough spot. Depending on how willing the front office is to spend in a modern manner, things could indeed swing either way in a hurry.

More Latest News!​

Bengals could attempt to fix safety issues with 49ers free agent​

Bengals sound fated to pay up huge on Ja'Marr Chase's contract extension​

Bengals cap space update after NFL gifts Cincy good news​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/20...t-office-team-danger-losing-contender-status/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Cincinnati Bengals find big-name help in beat writer mock draft

With the Scouting Combine coming next week in Indianapolis, draft season is going to get very intense. That also means mock drafts are going to get more intense.

Over at The Athletic, the team beat writers got together to conduct their own first-round mock. In this instance, the Cincinnati Bengals, led by beat writer Paul Dehner Jr., get some long-needed help on the inside of the defensive line by selecting Walter Nolen of Ole Miss at No. 17.

Here’s what Dehner had to say about the pick: “The Bengals have been searching for a disruptive interior pass rusher of the future for years. They took Kris Jenkins Jr. in the second round last year and nose tackle McKinnley Jackson in the third. With the lone proven and reliable veteran defensive tackle B.J. Hill a free agent, it’s imperative to add to the position, and Nolen gives new Bengals defensive coordinator Al Golden an instant starter. Nolen is a prototypical three-technique disrupter who tore up the SEC last year and is noted for his relentless play style.”

Even with the strong play of Hill, one could argue the Bengals haven’t had a force inside since Geno Atkins. That could change if they land the explosive Nolen in the first round. Nolen had 6.5 sacks and two fumble recoveries for the Rebels last season. Opposing offensive lines could have a heck of a time dealing with Nolen and the reigning sack king Trey Hendrickson.

More Latest News!​

Bengals extensions for Chase, Higgins, Hendrickson get murky update from insider​

Bengals cut candidates don't survive analyst's predictions list​

Bengals' front office has team in danger of losing contender status​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/20/cincinnati-bengals-big-name-help-beat-writer-mock-draft/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Bengals 'blowing up' defensive line would generate millions in cap space

The Cincinnati Bengals have plenty of cap space to knock out all of Joe Burrow’s demands this offseason, especially after a higher-than-expected incoming salary cap for 2025.

But that doesn’t mean the Bengals front office shouldn’t be seeking out ways to add even more.

One example, as Bengals fans have circled in red since at least last August, has been the idea of gutting the defensive line. This popped up again from For the Win’s Christian D’Andrea:

The Bengals need all the pass rushing help they can get, but both Hubbard and Rankins slogged through awful seasons in 2024 to leave Trey Hendrickson as the team’s only pocket-crumpling threat. With cap space needed to keep Tee Higgins in town (and potentially extend Hendrickson), Cincinnati could generate $19 million in savings by blowing up its front line and starting over with younger, cheaper replacements.

RELATED: Bengals reportedly aiming big to appease Joe Burrow’s demands

At this point, the Bengals will probably move on from both Hubbard ($9.6 million) and Rankins ($9.5 million).

There’s a scenario where the Bengals restructure with Hubbard, but he takes a significant role reduction behind former first-rounder Myles Murphy.

But the interior of the offensive line will get a youth movement that likely sees Rankins out the door after he could only suit up in seven games last season. The team drafted Kris Jenkins Jr. and McKinnley Jackson one year ago in the wake of losing DJ Reader — and project to add even more this offseason.

Saving cap in this manner could roll extra money toward free agents, whether it’s on the same defensive line or goes to the interior offensive trenches in front of Joe Burrow, to name just a few options.

More Latest News!​

Bengals address secondary in latest Daniel Jeremiah mock draft​

Cincinnati Bengals find big-name help in beat writer mock draft​

Bengals extensions for Chase, Higgins, Hendrickson get murky update from insider​

Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/20...p-defensive-line-generate-millions-cap-space/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Bengals address secondary in latest Daniel Jeremiah mock draft

When NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah talks, people listen. His mock drafts are among the most insightful in the business, mixing his board with what he is hearing across the league.

Jeremiah dropped his latest mock draft this week and he has the Cincinnati Bengals going defense in the first round, which makes plenty of sense. The team is looking to rebuild its image on that side under new defensive coordinator Al Golden.

But it’s the secondary where Jeremiah goes with this pick. He attacks the back half of the defense by taking Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron.

“I’m sure the Bengals would consider a defensive tackle here, but Barron is too good to pass up. Also, there will still be talented DTs available when Cincinnati is on the clock in Round 2,” wrote Jeremiah.

RELATED: Bengals reportedly aiming big to appease Joe Burrow’s demands

Barron had 67 tackles, five interceptions and 11 passes defended for the Longhorns, who reached the College Football Playoff semifinals last season.

After some picks at the position that ranged from questionable to misses at the position, the Bengals really need to hit on a cornerback prospect. Barron is considered one of the top corners in this class. He ranked No. 9 overall on Jeremiah’s latest big board.

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Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/20...-secondary-latest-daniel-jeremiah-mock-draft/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Bengals cap space updated outlook after major roster move

The Cincinnati Bengals put through one of their big expected cap-savings cuts to finish out the week, letting defensive lineman Sheldon Rankins go.

Cutting Rankins was one of three major projected releases for the Bengals this offseason and saves the team roughly $9.5 million against the cap.

Adding that to the rumored 2025 salary cap that is much bigger than expected, and the Bengals have roughly $62 million in cap space at this very moment.

But there are more interesting things to add here.

RELATED: Bengals reportedly aiming big to appease Joe Burrow’s demands

The timing of the release feels early, at least compared to normal Bengals operating procedure. Getting the contract off the books now provides more wiggle room and a clearer vision for what’s to come with the likes of Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and Trey Hendrickson.

Sam Hubbard ($9.6 million) and Alex Cappa ($8 million) are the other two expected cap cuts that could happen at any point, which would put the Bengals well into the top five in terms of teams with the most cap space.

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Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/21/bengals-cap-space-updated-outlook-major-roster-move/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Bills should blow Bengals 'out of the water' with Tee Higgins trade offer, says ESPN

With Joe Burrow throwing his weight around in public and the team not having any other choice regardless, the Cincinnati Bengals will attempt to find a way to keep Tee Higgins this offseason.

Higgins is one piece of a puzzle that Burrow has essentially demanded the team figure out how to put together, the others being Ja’Marr Chase and Trey Hendrickson.

But outside noise about the Bengals trading Higgins remains.

The most prominent example right now is ESPN’s Aaron Schatz, whose set of bold offseason projections has the Buffalo Bills blowing the Bengals “out of the water” with a Higgins trade offer:

Higgins is a No. 1 receiver in search of a No. 1 opportunity. Meanwhile, the Bills need a No. 1 receiver. They need someone quarterback Josh Allen can depend on; someone they can confidently go to on third down to move the chains. Khalil Shakir had 821 yards last season, but he’s a slot receiver. They didn’t have an outside receiver with more than 600 yards. Higgins would fit perfectly as the leader of their wide receiver room and give them what they need to finally reach the Super Bowl.

RELATED: Bengals reportedly aiming big to appease Joe Burrow’s demands

Bengals fans, though, know the Bengals. Unless the relationship with Higgins is ruined beyond repair, that asking price to actually get them to move Higgins would need to be a first-rounder and quite a bit more.

Complicating matters is the report that the Bengals will apply a second franchise tag to Higgins of the non-exclusive variety. That could bump the price up to multiple first-round picks on top of a massive contract extension for Higgins.

Meaning, once tagged at $26.2 million, Higgins probably isn’t going anywhere.

That has been the vibe since late last year, regardless. Higgins had the big agent change, which seemed to point to a new direction in his negotiations. A second tag, which they have until March 4 to apply, could merely be a way to extend contract talks beyond free agency.

Make no mistake, the Bengals will need to get out of their comfort zone to make it all work. But the organization throwing up its hands and trading Higgins — especially to a direct rival and contender in the AFC — would not go over well with the franchise quarterback, to say the very, very least.

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Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/20...t-of-water-projected-tee-higgins-trade-offer/

 

[Cincinnati Bengals]

Bengals QB Joe Burrow goes viral for commercial

It doesn’t take much for Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow to go viral these days.

In fact, it turns out he can even revisit old ad campaigns to get social media buzzing again.

Case in point, Burrow just took to Instagram to share footage from an advertisement he shot last year. The post quickly went viral across multiple platforms.

RELATED: Bengals reportedly aiming big to appease Joe Burrow’s demands

The footage originally comes from an ad campaign for Alo Yoga and features Burrow working out while helping the company pitch its second shoe to consumers.

From last year:

Burrow’s new post:

​

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Joe Burrow (@joeyb_9)​

Specifically, Burrow was pitching a performance model shoe for the luxury activewear brand at the time.

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Source: https://bengalswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/22/bengals-joe-burrow-goes-viral-commercial/