Cincinnati Bengals 2026 NFL Draft Preview

Despite having undeniable star power, the 2025 season was the worst for the Cincinnati Bengals since Joe Burrow ‘s rookie season in 2020. From August to December, Cincinnati fans had to put up with one of the worst defenses in the league, a still-struggling offensive line and questionable play calling. Bengals Draft Picks: Thankfully, the Bengals have eight different picks to address these needs: Round 1: Pick 10 Round 2: Pick 41 Round 3: Pick 72 Round 4: Pick 110 Round 6: Pick 189 Round 6: Pick 199 Round 7: Pick 221 Round 7: Pick 226 Bengals Positions of Need: The Bengals notably parted ways with Trey Hendrickson , who signed a four-year, $112 million deal with AFC North rivals, the Baltimore Ravens.

Cincinnati also notably said goodbye to starting offensive lineman Ted Karas, defensive end Joseph Ossai , and cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt . The Bengals have had the same issues with the defense and offensive line for the last couple of seasons now. Their positions of need are: EDGE DB LB OL Key Draft Targets for Bengals: Rueben Bain Jr.

– EDGE –Miami Cincinnati will be looking for a player that can impact the squad immediately and the two main candidates that are projected to fall within the 10th pick of the draft are Caleb Downs and Ruben Bain Jr. The departure of one of Cincinnati’s most productive pass rushers in franchise history will push the Bengals to draft the top edge in this year’s draft. Bain Jr.

is strong and relentless, who stands out due to his ability to disrupt offenses, recording 15. 5 tackles for loss and 9. 5 sacks this season.