Cincinnati Bengals’ Free Agency Strategy for 2026: A Deep Dive

Coming off a challenging 2020 season marked by Joe Burrow’s injury, the Cincinnati Bengals recognized the urgent need to bolster their defense at every level. Coordinator Lou Anarumo embarked on a rebuilding journey, initially leveraging draft classes but quickly realizing the necessity of strategic free-agent acquisitions to elevate the team to championship contention.

The Bengals’ 2021 free agency class proved remarkably successful, arguably the organization’s best in recent history. Key additions like edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, slot corner Mike Hilton, defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi, cornerback Chidobe Awuzie, and right tackle Riley Reiff significantly improved the team. This followed a year where they added defensive tackle D.J. Reader, safety Vonn Bell, and, with less success, cornerback Trae Waynes.

In 2022, the focus shifted to overhauling the offensive line, swiftly securing Alex Cappa and Ted Karras, followed by La’el Collins. However, recent years have seen the defense falter, consistently ranking in the league’s bottom quarter, ultimately leading to Anarumo’s departure. The Bengals’ personnel department, led by Duke Tobin, now faces a critical juncture: to once again revitalize the defense through free agency.

A Familiar Strategy?

“I really believe in the group that we have here,” Tobin stated after the season. “Why do I believe in them? Because they have shown that they can do it. They’re a collaborative group; they’re a smart group. They’ve been there before.” While Tobin is focused on the future, examining the past reveals a pattern. From 2020 to 2022, the Bengals targeted one player in the consensus top 20, another in the 20-60 range, and several mid-tier bargains, often players coming off their rookie contracts, with a focus on strengthening the trenches.

Tobin highlighted a preference for players who were underutilized in previous roles, underappreciated, or represented a strategic splash at a key position. Understanding this approach, coupled with the team’s identified needs, provides insight into their likely targets and spending range.

Expect the biggest investment to be on the defensive line, specifically to enhance the pass rush. Additional targets include another defensive lineman, a linebacker, and a safety. These positions are relatively deep in both free agency and the draft, offering the Bengals flexibility.

Top Free Agency Targets for the Bengals

Tobin emphasized the need for not only pass-rushing prowess but also leadership and positional versatility. He even hinted at a willingness to consider players over 30, acknowledging the increasing longevity of NFL careers. Here’s a ranking of the most realistic fits:

Defensive Line

1. Boye Mafe, Seahawks ($$$$): A pass-rushing talent reminiscent of Trey Hendrickson, limited by his role on a deep defensive line. High motor and consistent win rate.
2. Dre’Mont Jones, Ravens ($$): Versatile and productive, capable of playing multiple positions and adding interior pressure.
3. Odafe Oweh, Chargers ($$$$$): An ideal fit, but likely too expensive given the Bengals’ approach.
4. D.J. Reader, Lions ($): A proven leader and solid run defender, offering value at a reasonable cost.
5. Kwity Paye, Colts ($$$): Athletic and physical, with potential for improvement in pass rushing.
6. Arnold Ebiketie, Falcons ($): Underrated with high upside, potentially filling the Joseph Ossai role.
7. John Franklin-Myers, Broncos ($$$$$): A rare pass-rushing defensive tackle, but likely to be overpaid.

Linebacker

1. Leo Chenal, Chiefs ($$$): Versatile and productive, excelling in rushing the passer, spying the quarterback, and stopping the run.
2. Kaden Elliss, Falcons ($$): A top pass-rushing linebacker with a history with Bengals LBs coach Mike Hodges.
3. Demario Davis, Saints ($$): A veteran leader and high-level performer, but age may be a concern.
4. Eric Wilson, Vikings ($): Excelled as a blitzing linebacker under Brian Flores.
5. Alex Singleton, Broncos ($): A great tackler and physical player.

Safety

1. Jalen Thompson, Cardinals ($$): An elite tackler and consistent starter with a low missed tackle rate.
2. Minkah Fitzpatrick, Dolphins ($$$$): A potential trade target offering leadership, stability, and versatility.
3. Kevin Byard, Bears ($$$): An All-Pro safety with a history of running quality defenses.
4. Coby Bryant, Seahawks ($$): A former Cincinnati Bearcats corner who transitioned to safety and performed well.
5. Jaquan Brisker, Bears ($): Versatile safety with production and a reasonable price tag.

As the Bengals navigate free agency, their strategy will likely mirror past successes: a blend of high-impact additions, value signings, and a focus on addressing key needs. The success of this approach will be crucial, not only for the team’s performance but also for the future of those involved in the organization.

Paul Dehner Jr. is a senior writer for The Athletic, covering the Bengals and NFL since 2009.