Cincinnati Bengals News, Schedule, Rumors, Reports | Last Word on NFL https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/category/nfl-teams/bengals/ NFL Team News, Analysis, History, Schedule, Rumors Wed, 19 Mar 2025 03:09:10 +0000 en-US hourly 1 The Bengals Have Never Had a Duo Quite Like What They Have Now https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/19/the-bengals-have-never-had-a-duo-quite-like-what-they-have-now/ https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/19/the-bengals-have-never-had-a-duo-quite-like-what-they-have-now/#respond Wed, 19 Mar 2025 13:00:43 +0000 https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/?p=223483 The Cincinnati Bengals were able to do what nobody in the NFL thought - or wanted - them to do. Both Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins are locked down for the next four seasons at the very least. In the history of the Bengals, there have been some elite receivers to come through. Chad Johnson, A.J. Green, Carl Pickens, Isaac Curtis, and Cris Collinsworth had their time putting the offense on their backs and etched their names in the history books.

The team knew what it had in Chase and Higgins and rewarded them accordingly, albeit way later than they should have. These are two of the greatest receivers to wear the orange and black striped helmet. With Joe Burrow at quarterback, the sky seems to be the limit on the offense. When each of these extensions ends, how will the careers of Chase and Higgins look?

https://twitter.com/Schultz_Report/status/1902170546072133866

A Look at the Career Trajectories for Chase and Higgins

The GOAT?

There is an argument for Burrow to be the greatest Bengals quarterback. What about his top receiver? At this point in his career, Ja'Marr Chase has played in 62 games and has amassed 5,425 yards and 46 touchdowns off 395 receptions. Already, in the history of the franchise, Chase is fifth in touchdowns, eighth in receptions, and 10th in yards.

So, in four seasons, Chase averages 15.5 games per year. In those 15.5 games, he's accounted for 87.5 yards, 0.75 touchdowns, and 6.4 receptions per game. With this extension, tacked on to his fifth-year option this year, Chase is under contract through the 2029 season. Considering he's coming off his Triple Crown season and entering his peak, it's not unrealistic to think that he will outplay his career averages to this point.

If he continues his current trajectory, he's going to cement himself as the greatest receiver in franchise history. At his current pace, at the end of the 2029-30 season, Chase will have 12,206 yards, 103 touchdowns, and 891 receptions. The next closest Bengal would be Chad Johnson with 10,783 yards and 66 touchdowns off 751 receptions. He would not just break or shatter the records, he would obliterate them.

Obviously, Chase would be the best receiver at the end of this, but does he have an argument right now? In terms of sheer talent, yes. Chase is quarterback-proof, it just helps that he has one of the top players at the position on his team.

Joining The Elites in Franchise History

Higgins, meanwhile, has been the Robin to Chase's Batman ever since the two suited up together in 2021. He was drafted with the 33rd pick of the 2020 draft with Burrow and took over the WR1 role over Green and Tyler Boyd in short time. Then, despite the Bengals drafting Chase, he did not take it personally and never let his focus slip despite being the WR2.

Higgins has played in 70 games in his Bengals career across five seasons. That averages out to 14 games per year. In those 14 games, Higgins accounts for 65.6 yards, 0.49 touchdowns, off 4.7 catches per game. While those are not Chase-level numbers, Higgins is a top-end receiver in his own right. Assuming he continues to play at the rate he has been - even while missing two or three games per season - Higgins will be toward the top of the leaderboard with his teammate.

Higgins is under contract through the 2028 season, so he's on pace to play in another 56 games. At this rate, Higgins is set to finish out this contract with 8,269 yards and 61 touchdowns off 593 catches. Factoring in Chase's aforementioned outlook, Higgins should end up fourth in franchise history in catches and yards while slotting in at fifth in touchdowns.

Could the Bengals really have two top-five receivers in franchise history on the roster right now? Again, in terms of talent, absolutely. However, Higgins has the fact that he's not the number-one option in the offense working against him. Even then, he's right up there with Chase, Johnson, Green, and Pickens. It's impressive.

The hype and optimism are high in Cincinnati. Yes, the defense needs work. It sure looks like the Bengals are banking on Al Golden getting the most out of all of the young draft picks the team has accumulated over the last few drafts. Even with a terrible defense, this offense was able to carry the team kicking and screaming to nine wins last year.

Locking down Chase and Higgins was the right move. By the end of these contracts, it'll be obvious.

Main Image: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

The post The Bengals Have Never Had a Duo Quite Like What They Have Now appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

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The Cincinnati Bengals were able to do what nobody in the NFL thought – or wanted – them to do. Both Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins are locked down for the next four seasons at the very least. In the history of the Bengals, there have been some elite receivers to come through. Chad Johnson, A.J. Green, Carl Pickens, Isaac Curtis, and Cris Collinsworth had their time putting the offense on their backs and etched their names in the history books.

The team knew what it had in Chase and Higgins and rewarded them accordingly, albeit way later than they should have. These are two of the greatest receivers to wear the orange and black striped helmet. With Joe Burrow at quarterback, the sky seems to be the limit on the offense. When each of these extensions ends, how will the careers of Chase and Higgins look?

A Look at the Career Trajectories for Chase and Higgins

The GOAT?

There is an argument for Burrow to be the greatest Bengals quarterback. What about his top receiver? At this point in his career, Ja’Marr Chase has played in 62 games and has amassed 5,425 yards and 46 touchdowns off 395 receptions. Already, in the history of the franchise, Chase is fifth in touchdowns, eighth in receptions, and 10th in yards.

So, in four seasons, Chase averages 15.5 games per year. In those 15.5 games, he’s accounted for 87.5 yards, 0.75 touchdowns, and 6.4 receptions per game. With this extension, tacked on to his fifth-year option this year, Chase is under contract through the 2029 season. Considering he’s coming off his Triple Crown season and entering his peak, it’s not unrealistic to think that he will outplay his career averages to this point.

If he continues his current trajectory, he’s going to cement himself as the greatest receiver in franchise history. At his current pace, at the end of the 2029-30 season, Chase will have 12,206 yards, 103 touchdowns, and 891 receptions. The next closest Bengal would be Chad Johnson with 10,783 yards and 66 touchdowns off 751 receptions. He would not just break or shatter the records, he would obliterate them.

Obviously, Chase would be the best receiver at the end of this, but does he have an argument right now? In terms of sheer talent, yes. Chase is quarterback-proof, it just helps that he has one of the top players at the position on his team.

Joining The Elites in Franchise History

Higgins, meanwhile, has been the Robin to Chase’s Batman ever since the two suited up together in 2021. He was drafted with the 33rd pick of the 2020 draft with Burrow and took over the WR1 role over Green and Tyler Boyd in short time. Then, despite the Bengals drafting Chase, he did not take it personally and never let his focus slip despite being the WR2.

Higgins has played in 70 games in his Bengals career across five seasons. That averages out to 14 games per year. In those 14 games, Higgins accounts for 65.6 yards, 0.49 touchdowns, off 4.7 catches per game. While those are not Chase-level numbers, Higgins is a top-end receiver in his own right. Assuming he continues to play at the rate he has been – even while missing two or three games per season – Higgins will be toward the top of the leaderboard with his teammate.

Higgins is under contract through the 2028 season, so he’s on pace to play in another 56 games. At this rate, Higgins is set to finish out this contract with 8,269 yards and 61 touchdowns off 593 catches. Factoring in Chase’s aforementioned outlook, Higgins should end up fourth in franchise history in catches and yards while slotting in at fifth in touchdowns.

Could the Bengals really have two top-five receivers in franchise history on the roster right now? Again, in terms of talent, absolutely. However, Higgins has the fact that he’s not the number-one option in the offense working against him. Even then, he’s right up there with Chase, Johnson, Green, and Pickens. It’s impressive.

The hype and optimism are high in Cincinnati. Yes, the defense needs work. It sure looks like the Bengals are banking on Al Golden getting the most out of all of the young draft picks the team has accumulated over the last few drafts. Even with a terrible defense, this offense was able to carry the team kicking and screaming to nine wins last year.

Locking down Chase and Higgins was the right move. By the end of these contracts, it’ll be obvious.

Main Image: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

The post The Bengals Have Never Had a Duo Quite Like What They Have Now appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

]]> https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/19/the-bengals-have-never-had-a-duo-quite-like-what-they-have-now/feed/ 0 Bengals Have Extended Both Star Receivers…Now What? https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/18/bengals-have-extended-both-star-receivers-now-what/ https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/18/bengals-have-extended-both-star-receivers-now-what/#respond Tue, 18 Mar 2025 13:00:56 +0000 https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/?p=223307 In the late hours of Sunday, March 16, Fox Sports insider Jordan Schultz announced that he received exclusive information that both Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins agreed to four-year extensions with the Cincinnati Bengals. Locked on Bengals host James Rapien had announced that the deals were done the day prior but no nationally known entities corroborated, so it flew under the radar. Regardless, the deals were done, they will likely be announced this week, and everyone has opinions.

Getting the top receiver in the game and the top WR2 locked down through 2028 (and Chase through 2029), is objectively good for the Bengals. Yes, there are issues on the team. However, the team won nine games in 2024, narrowly missing the playoffs despite a bottom-of-the-league defense. Even then, seven of those losses were by one score and three were by three points or less. Joe Burrow and the offense can carry the team to a winning record. As nice as it is to win more games than not, going 9-8 and missing the playoffs by a game is not the goal.

Locking down Chase and Higgins was priority number one this offseason for the Bengals. Now that that's taken care of, there are still plenty of things the team has to do to get this roster into contending shape for 2025.

What's Next for the Bengals After Chase, Higgins Extensions

Figure It Out With Hendrickson

https://twitter.com/JoeGoodberry/status/1901624360827306173

The market has seemingly cooled on the Trey Hendrickson trade front. Back at the beginning of February, Hendrickson gave the Bengals an ultimatum: either extend him or trade him. As negotiations seemingly broke down, the team gave Hendrickson permission to seek out a new deal with another team and work out a trade. His representation allegedly told the Bengals that they could net a first-round pick for Hendrickson.

Now, a month and a half later, nothing has changed. No trades have materialized. Free agency has cooled off. As it turns out, the Bengals don't have any legitimate interest in trading away its defensive star, going so far as to ask a ridiculously high price in trade compensation.

There has been a disconnect between the Bengals and Hendrickson. Despite all of that, the two sides have plans to sit back down and hash these negotiations out. According to national insiders/Hendrickson's agent's mouthpieces, the sticking point is new money. Ie., he's making $16 million this year and if he signs a two-year, $60 million extension, it all averages out to be $25.3 million per year.

The Bengals defense was atrocious last year and the team did the bare minimum in free agency to this point. Losing Hendrickson would be criminal malpractice. They are not going to get his production from a rookie. Cincinnati has to do what it can to get the deal done.

Higgins' and Chase's cap hits were lowered with their extensions. The money is there. If the Bengals have to sweeten the deal with a ludicrous signing bonus, so be it.

Sign At Least One Guard

To this point, the only moves the Bengals have made on the offensive line were cutting Alex Cappa and re-signing Cody Ford.

That's not enough. In fact, that's an awful way of protecting Burrow considering the team rostered the NFL's worst guard duo last year. As the Locked on Bengals duo put it, the team is addicted to going into the draft with one glaring need. At this point, that's what it looks like is happening.

Evey free-agent guard the Bengals were even superficially linked to has signed elsewhere. Teven Jenkins was offered a deal but turned it down and visited Seattle this week. Now, who is left? Will Hernandez? Brandon Scherff? Dalton Risner?

Even if none of the available guards are destined for All-Pro status, the team seriously needs to upgrade the position before the draft.

There will be solid guards in this year's class. Tyler Booker, Gray Zabel, and Donovan Jackson are first-round options (the latter two could likely be had after a trade back, of course). In the second round, guys like Marcus Mbow, Jonah Savaiinaea, and Tate Ratledge are popular names.

Considering the last time the Bengals took a first-round guard was Kevin Zeitler in 2012, they'll have to break another tendency. Even if they think Matt Lee can move to guard and be a starter (they probably don't), guard is a glaring need.

One More Broken Tendency?

The team has handed out lucrative contracts to three offensive players with multiple years of guarantees and signed a player on the wrong side of 30 (with the possibility of at least one other), why can't they do one more crazy thing? The Bengals should sign 38-year-old, future Hall of Famer, Calais Campbell.

The Bengals defensive line lacks, well, everything when Hendrickson is off the field. Joseph Ossai, Myles Murphy, Kris Jenkins, BJ Hill, and McKinnley Jackson don't have the juice Hendrickson has. The defense is geared to stop the run but when it gets into obvious passing downs, the defensive line can't get to the quarterback.

Campbell could provide that spark. He gave the Miami Dolphins 615 snaps and managed 52 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, five sacks, and broke up five passes. Father Time may be undefeated but Campbell has had him on the ropes for years now.

He would give the Bengals positional versatility to help out at tackle and edge. Plus, he would provide some intangible leadership for the young defensive line group. Imagine learning from a guy with the pedigree of Campbell.

The Bengals had their shot to sign Campbell last year and balked. They shouldn't make the same mistake this offseason. Might as well take a shot.

Main Image: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images

The post Bengals Have Extended Both Star Receivers…Now What? appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

]]>

In the late hours of Sunday, March 16, Fox Sports insider Jordan Schultz announced that he received exclusive information that both Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins agreed to four-year extensions with the Cincinnati Bengals. Locked on Bengals host James Rapien had announced that the deals were done the day prior but no nationally known entities corroborated, so it flew under the radar. Regardless, the deals were done, they will likely be announced this week, and everyone has opinions.

Getting the top receiver in the game and the top WR2 locked down through 2028 (and Chase through 2029), is objectively good for the Bengals. Yes, there are issues on the team. However, the team won nine games in 2024, narrowly missing the playoffs despite a bottom-of-the-league defense. Even then, seven of those losses were by one score and three were by three points or less. Joe Burrow and the offense can carry the team to a winning record. As nice as it is to win more games than not, going 9-8 and missing the playoffs by a game is not the goal.

Locking down Chase and Higgins was priority number one this offseason for the Bengals. Now that that’s taken care of, there are still plenty of things the team has to do to get this roster into contending shape for 2025.

What’s Next for the Bengals After Chase, Higgins Extensions

Figure It Out With Hendrickson

The market has seemingly cooled on the Trey Hendrickson trade front. Back at the beginning of February, Hendrickson gave the Bengals an ultimatum: either extend him or trade him. As negotiations seemingly broke down, the team gave Hendrickson permission to seek out a new deal with another team and work out a trade. His representation allegedly told the Bengals that they could net a first-round pick for Hendrickson.

Now, a month and a half later, nothing has changed. No trades have materialized. Free agency has cooled off. As it turns out, the Bengals don’t have any legitimate interest in trading away its defensive star, going so far as to ask a ridiculously high price in trade compensation.

There has been a disconnect between the Bengals and Hendrickson. Despite all of that, the two sides have plans to sit back down and hash these negotiations out. According to national insiders/Hendrickson’s agent’s mouthpieces, the sticking point is new money. Ie., he’s making $16 million this year and if he signs a two-year, $60 million extension, it all averages out to be $25.3 million per year.

The Bengals defense was atrocious last year and the team did the bare minimum in free agency to this point. Losing Hendrickson would be criminal malpractice. They are not going to get his production from a rookie. Cincinnati has to do what it can to get the deal done.

Higgins’ and Chase’s cap hits were lowered with their extensions. The money is there. If the Bengals have to sweeten the deal with a ludicrous signing bonus, so be it.

Sign At Least One Guard

To this point, the only moves the Bengals have made on the offensive line were cutting Alex Cappa and re-signing Cody Ford.

That’s not enough. In fact, that’s an awful way of protecting Burrow considering the team rostered the NFL’s worst guard duo last year. As the Locked on Bengals duo put it, the team is addicted to going into the draft with one glaring need. At this point, that’s what it looks like is happening.

Evey free-agent guard the Bengals were even superficially linked to has signed elsewhere. Teven Jenkins was offered a deal but turned it down and visited Seattle this week. Now, who is left? Will Hernandez? Brandon Scherff? Dalton Risner?

Even if none of the available guards are destined for All-Pro status, the team seriously needs to upgrade the position before the draft.

There will be solid guards in this year’s class. Tyler Booker, Gray Zabel, and Donovan Jackson are first-round options (the latter two could likely be had after a trade back, of course). In the second round, guys like Marcus Mbow, Jonah Savaiinaea, and Tate Ratledge are popular names.

Considering the last time the Bengals took a first-round guard was Kevin Zeitler in 2012, they’ll have to break another tendency. Even if they think Matt Lee can move to guard and be a starter (they probably don’t), guard is a glaring need.

One More Broken Tendency?

The team has handed out lucrative contracts to three offensive players with multiple years of guarantees and signed a player on the wrong side of 30 (with the possibility of at least one other), why can’t they do one more crazy thing? The Bengals should sign 38-year-old, future Hall of Famer, Calais Campbell.

The Bengals defensive line lacks, well, everything when Hendrickson is off the field. Joseph Ossai, Myles Murphy, Kris Jenkins, BJ Hill, and McKinnley Jackson don’t have the juice Hendrickson has. The defense is geared to stop the run but when it gets into obvious passing downs, the defensive line can’t get to the quarterback.

Campbell could provide that spark. He gave the Miami Dolphins 615 snaps and managed 52 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, five sacks, and broke up five passes. Father Time may be undefeated but Campbell has had him on the ropes for years now.

He would give the Bengals positional versatility to help out at tackle and edge. Plus, he would provide some intangible leadership for the young defensive line group. Imagine learning from a guy with the pedigree of Campbell.

The Bengals had their shot to sign Campbell last year and balked. They shouldn’t make the same mistake this offseason. Might as well take a shot.

Main Image: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images

The post Bengals Have Extended Both Star Receivers…Now What? appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

]]> https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/18/bengals-have-extended-both-star-receivers-now-what/feed/ 0 Bengals Blockbuster Extensions Means Possible Trade is Imminent https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/17/bengals-blockbuster-jamarr-chase-tee-higgins-extensions-means-possible-trade-is-imminent/ https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/17/bengals-blockbuster-jamarr-chase-tee-higgins-extensions-means-possible-trade-is-imminent/#respond Mon, 17 Mar 2025 20:34:18 +0000 https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/?p=223240 Despite the uncertainty, the Cincinnati Bengals got wide receivers Jamarr Chase and Tee Higgins new extensions who now get the chance to stay with the team for the foreseeable future. According to the breaking news, the Bengals just gave monster contract extensions for Chase and Higgins, which is a win for Joe Burrow's passing offense but it doesn't look promising for other athletes they need to pay. However, the Bengals are working on a new deal for Trey Hendrickson who requested a trade earlier this offseason, but he wasn't the only one.

Linebacker Germaine Pratt was another defensive piece that put in a request for a trade and it's looking more apparent that will happen. Originally selected in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, the former NC State product enters the final year of his three-year contract so he isn't waiting around until next offseason. With that, the Bengals should make it a priority to trade him as he has a lot of upside. Cincinnati has a lot of money left over even with the monster extensions but they're working on a new deal for Hendrickson who will accumulate most of the salary cap. After recording ninth in total tackles in the league, Pratt should have plenty of trade suitors.

Jamarr Chase and Tee Higgins Blockbuster Extensions Means Possible Trade is Imminent for Germaine Pratt

Potential Next Teams

Washington Commanders

The Washington Commanders lost Dante Fowler Jr. back to the Cowboys after putting in more than 10 sacks in 2024. However, they were able to retain veteran Bobby Wagner on another one-year deal but as much as the offense looks promising, the team needs work on defense. Jayden Daniels has a capable pass game with the trade of Deebo Samuel so it's time to add formidable talent for the foreseeable future and that could be trading for Pratt.

New Orleans Saints

Meanwhile, the Saints found a way to afford at least a high-level defensive talent in Justin Reid this offseason. If they can do that, it's possible general manager Mickey Loomis can find a way to get creative since he already doesn't want to rebuild a new team since 2020. DeMario Davis has an uncertain future this offseason and if they trade for Pratt, the team should be in good hands with at least three-headed monsters of Pete Werner, Jaylan Ford and Pratt.

Los Angeles Chargers

Unlike the Saints, the Los Angeles Chargers have plenty of cap space to facilitate a trade to bolster their defensive pass rush. Head coach Jim Harbaugh loves playing in the trenches and winning football games with a physicality. After releasing Joey Bosa, the team needs a capable opposite of Khalil Mack since signing a one-year extension with the team. Pratt could be the perfect fit in this unit to get the best out of Mack for what could be his final season in the league.

Carolina Panthers

Depending on what the Carolina Panthers do with Jadeveon Clowney, the team will need to find another linebacker either way. The Panthers have done phenomenal getting defensive linemen like Tershawn Wharton to help navigate Derrick Brown's return with another body. It's time for head coach Dave Canales to target some more linebacker talent and trading for Pratt could be a fit to ram the holes wherever there's opening.

The post Bengals Blockbuster Extensions Means Possible Trade is Imminent appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

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Despite the uncertainty, the Cincinnati Bengals got wide receivers Jamarr Chase and Tee Higgins new extensions who now get the chance to stay with the team for the foreseeable future. According to the breaking news, the Bengals just gave monster contract extensions for Chase and Higgins, which is a win for Joe Burrow’s passing offense but it doesn’t look promising for other athletes they need to pay. However, the Bengals are working on a new deal for Trey Hendrickson who requested a trade earlier this offseason, but he wasn’t the only one.

Linebacker Germaine Pratt was another defensive piece that put in a request for a trade and it’s looking more apparent that will happen. Originally selected in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, the former NC State product enters the final year of his three-year contract so he isn’t waiting around until next offseason. With that, the Bengals should make it a priority to trade him as he has a lot of upside. Cincinnati has a lot of money left over even with the monster extensions but they’re working on a new deal for Hendrickson who will accumulate most of the salary cap. After recording ninth in total tackles in the league, Pratt should have plenty of trade suitors.

Jamarr Chase and Tee Higgins Blockbuster Extensions Means Possible Trade is Imminent for Germaine Pratt

Potential Next Teams

Washington Commanders

The Washington Commanders lost Dante Fowler Jr. back to the Cowboys after putting in more than 10 sacks in 2024. However, they were able to retain veteran Bobby Wagner on another one-year deal but as much as the offense looks promising, the team needs work on defense. Jayden Daniels has a capable pass game with the trade of Deebo Samuel so it’s time to add formidable talent for the foreseeable future and that could be trading for Pratt.

New Orleans Saints

Meanwhile, the Saints found a way to afford at least a high-level defensive talent in Justin Reid this offseason. If they can do that, it’s possible general manager Mickey Loomis can find a way to get creative since he already doesn’t want to rebuild a new team since 2020. DeMario Davis has an uncertain future this offseason and if they trade for Pratt, the team should be in good hands with at least three-headed monsters of Pete Werner, Jaylan Ford and Pratt.

Los Angeles Chargers

Unlike the Saints, the Los Angeles Chargers have plenty of cap space to facilitate a trade to bolster their defensive pass rush. Head coach Jim Harbaugh loves playing in the trenches and winning football games with a physicality. After releasing Joey Bosa, the team needs a capable opposite of Khalil Mack since signing a one-year extension with the team. Pratt could be the perfect fit in this unit to get the best out of Mack for what could be his final season in the league.

Carolina Panthers

Depending on what the Carolina Panthers do with Jadeveon Clowney, the team will need to find another linebacker either way. The Panthers have done phenomenal getting defensive linemen like Tershawn Wharton to help navigate Derrick Brown’s return with another body. It’s time for head coach Dave Canales to target some more linebacker talent and trading for Pratt could be a fit to ram the holes wherever there’s opening.

The post Bengals Blockbuster Extensions Means Possible Trade is Imminent appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

]]> https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/17/bengals-blockbuster-jamarr-chase-tee-higgins-extensions-means-possible-trade-is-imminent/feed/ 0 Cincinnati Bengals Agree to Massive Contract Extension With Superstar Receiver https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/16/cincinnati-bengals-agree-to-massive-contract-extension-with-superstar-receiver/ https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/16/cincinnati-bengals-agree-to-massive-contract-extension-with-superstar-receiver/#respond Mon, 17 Mar 2025 03:01:39 +0000 https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/?p=186264 After all of the hoopla surrounding the Cincinnati Bengals and Ja'Marr Chase, the two were able to finally get a contract extension inked. The two sides agreed to a four-year extension worth $161 million, with $112 million guaranteed. Chase is now the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. Chase is a four-time Pro Bowl receiver and is among the elites of the game.

https://twitter.com/Schultz_Report/status/1901466892184740072

Bengals, Ja'Marr Chase Agree to Record-Breaking Extension

After leading what could be considered the best college football team to a National Championship in 2019, Chase sat out 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Then, in the 2021 NFL Draft, the Bengals took Chase fifth overall.

As a rookie, Chase was an immediate impact playmaker. Despite comical preseason worries about catching the football, Chase hauled in 81 passes for 1,455 yards and 13 touchdowns. He shattered A.J. Green's Bengals rookie record by nearly 400 yards. Chase was also an integral part of the Super Bowl run, amassing 368 yards and a touchdown off 25 receptions in the four-game postseason.

In his second season, he was dealing with a few nagging injuries. As a result, his 2022 season was a step back, only managing 1,046 yards and nine touchdowns off 87 receptions. Again, he was integral to the Bengals getting back to the AFC Championship with 220 yards and two touchdowns in the Bengals' three postseason games.

In 2023, Chase returned to normal. He totaled 100 receptions for 1,216 yards and seven touchdowns.

Chase participated in a hold-in prior to the 2024 season in an attempt to earn a contract extension. Despite no deal, he played and only recorded the franchise's first Triple Crown season. Chase led the NFL with 127 catches for 1,708 yards and 17 touchdowns, cementing himself as the top receiver in the game. Looking back, the Bengals will be kicking themselves for not getting the deal done before Chase's price skyrocketed. He earned his first career First Team All-Pro selection.

In each season, Chase was picked to represent the Bengals at the Pro Bowl. He has 19 100-yard receiving games to his credit with two more coming in the playoffs. Chase has three 200-yard games, including his career-best 266-yard game against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 17 as he led the Bengals to its first AFC North division title in six years.

Chase broke the Bengals' single-game receptions record with 15 in the Week 5 win over the Arizona Cardinals in 2023.

Joe Burrow has his favorite target locked down for the foreseeable future.

Main Image:  Albert Cesare/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The post Cincinnati Bengals Agree to Massive Contract Extension With Superstar Receiver appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

]]>

After all of the hoopla surrounding the Cincinnati Bengals and Ja’Marr Chase, the two were able to finally get a contract extension inked. The two sides agreed to a four-year extension worth $161 million, with $112 million guaranteed. Chase is now the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. Chase is a four-time Pro Bowl receiver and is among the elites of the game.

Bengals, Ja’Marr Chase Agree to Record-Breaking Extension

After leading what could be considered the best college football team to a National Championship in 2019, Chase sat out 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Then, in the 2021 NFL Draft, the Bengals took Chase fifth overall.

As a rookie, Chase was an immediate impact playmaker. Despite comical preseason worries about catching the football, Chase hauled in 81 passes for 1,455 yards and 13 touchdowns. He shattered A.J. Green‘s Bengals rookie record by nearly 400 yards. Chase was also an integral part of the Super Bowl run, amassing 368 yards and a touchdown off 25 receptions in the four-game postseason.

In his second season, he was dealing with a few nagging injuries. As a result, his 2022 season was a step back, only managing 1,046 yards and nine touchdowns off 87 receptions. Again, he was integral to the Bengals getting back to the AFC Championship with 220 yards and two touchdowns in the Bengals’ three postseason games.

In 2023, Chase returned to normal. He totaled 100 receptions for 1,216 yards and seven touchdowns.

Chase participated in a hold-in prior to the 2024 season in an attempt to earn a contract extension. Despite no deal, he played and only recorded the franchise’s first Triple Crown season. Chase led the NFL with 127 catches for 1,708 yards and 17 touchdowns, cementing himself as the top receiver in the game. Looking back, the Bengals will be kicking themselves for not getting the deal done before Chase’s price skyrocketed. He earned his first career First Team All-Pro selection.

In each season, Chase was picked to represent the Bengals at the Pro Bowl. He has 19 100-yard receiving games to his credit with two more coming in the playoffs. Chase has three 200-yard games, including his career-best 266-yard game against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 17 as he led the Bengals to its first AFC North division title in six years.

Chase broke the Bengals’ single-game receptions record with 15 in the Week 5 win over the Arizona Cardinals in 2023.

Joe Burrow has his favorite target locked down for the foreseeable future.

Main Image:  Albert Cesare/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The post Cincinnati Bengals Agree to Massive Contract Extension With Superstar Receiver appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

]]> https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/16/cincinnati-bengals-agree-to-massive-contract-extension-with-superstar-receiver/feed/ 0 Bengals, Tee Higgins, Finally Agree to Contract Extension https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/16/bengals-tee-higgins-finally-agree-to-contract-extension/ https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/16/bengals-tee-higgins-finally-agree-to-contract-extension/#respond Mon, 17 Mar 2025 02:59:27 +0000 https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/?p=222778 Over the last few years, the Cincinnati Bengals and Tee Higgins have been at odds regarding a contract extension. Finally, the saga has come to an end as the two sides agreed to a four-year contract worth up to $115 million. Higgins has spent his entire career with the Bengals after being picked with the 33rd-overall pick in 2020. He played out his rookie contract and played under the Franchise Tag last year. This year, he was tagged again but now, he will play on a new deal instead.

https://twitter.com/Schultz_Report/status/1901466892184740072

Bengals, Tee Higgins, Finally Agree to Contract Extension

After starring at Clemson to the tune of 2,448 yards and 27 touchdowns, the Bengals picked Higgins with the first pick of the second round in the 2020 NFL Draft to pair him up with Joe Burrow. As a rookie, Higgins made an immediate impact. In 16 games, he hauled in 67 passes for 908 yards and six touchdowns. Despite Burrow's season ending in Week 10, Higgins continued his impressive play down the stretch despite the drop-off at quarterback.

Higgins took the WR2 role in stride in 2021 after Ja'Marr Chase joined the squad. The six-foot-four wideout appeared in 14 regular-season games and amassed 1,091 yards and six touchdowns off 74 catches. He was a crucial element of the Bengals' Super Bowl run. Across the AFC Divisional round, AFC Championship, and Super Bowl, Higgins hauled in 17 passes for 299 yards and two touchdowns.

He kept it up in 2022 as the Bengals tried to get back to the mountaintop. In 16 games, Higgins managed 1,029 yards and seven touchdowns off 74 catches. He helped lead the Bengals back to the playoffs and amassed 148 yards and one touchdown across three games.

In an injury-shortened season in 2023, Higgins took a statistical step back. In 12 games, he totaled 656 yards and five touchdowns off 42 receptions. Again, despite the Burrow injury, Higgins was able to continue his top-tier play down the stretch before being shut down with a week left in the season.

Last year, Higgins dealt with injuries again at the onset of the season and again in the middle. However, despite only suiting up for 12 games, Higgins recorded 73 catches for 911 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Higgins is a crucial member of the Bengals offense. Now, there is a little stability for both sides. Finally.

Main Image: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

The post Bengals, Tee Higgins, Finally Agree to Contract Extension appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

]]>

Over the last few years, the Cincinnati Bengals and Tee Higgins have been at odds regarding a contract extension. Finally, the saga has come to an end as the two sides agreed to a four-year contract worth up to $115 million. Higgins has spent his entire career with the Bengals after being picked with the 33rd-overall pick in 2020. He played out his rookie contract and played under the Franchise Tag last year. This year, he was tagged again but now, he will play on a new deal instead.

Bengals, Tee Higgins, Finally Agree to Contract Extension

After starring at Clemson to the tune of 2,448 yards and 27 touchdowns, the Bengals picked Higgins with the first pick of the second round in the 2020 NFL Draft to pair him up with Joe Burrow. As a rookie, Higgins made an immediate impact. In 16 games, he hauled in 67 passes for 908 yards and six touchdowns. Despite Burrow’s season ending in Week 10, Higgins continued his impressive play down the stretch despite the drop-off at quarterback.

Higgins took the WR2 role in stride in 2021 after Ja’Marr Chase joined the squad. The six-foot-four wideout appeared in 14 regular-season games and amassed 1,091 yards and six touchdowns off 74 catches. He was a crucial element of the Bengals’ Super Bowl run. Across the AFC Divisional round, AFC Championship, and Super Bowl, Higgins hauled in 17 passes for 299 yards and two touchdowns.

He kept it up in 2022 as the Bengals tried to get back to the mountaintop. In 16 games, Higgins managed 1,029 yards and seven touchdowns off 74 catches. He helped lead the Bengals back to the playoffs and amassed 148 yards and one touchdown across three games.

In an injury-shortened season in 2023, Higgins took a statistical step back. In 12 games, he totaled 656 yards and five touchdowns off 42 receptions. Again, despite the Burrow injury, Higgins was able to continue his top-tier play down the stretch before being shut down with a week left in the season.

Last year, Higgins dealt with injuries again at the onset of the season and again in the middle. However, despite only suiting up for 12 games, Higgins recorded 73 catches for 911 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Higgins is a crucial member of the Bengals offense. Now, there is a little stability for both sides. Finally.

Main Image: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

The post Bengals, Tee Higgins, Finally Agree to Contract Extension appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

]]> https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/16/bengals-tee-higgins-finally-agree-to-contract-extension/feed/ 0 REPORT: Bengals “Ridiculous” Demands Could Prevent Blockbuster Trade https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/13/report-bengals-ridiculous-demands-prevent-trey-hendrickson-trade/ https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/13/report-bengals-ridiculous-demands-prevent-trey-hendrickson-trade/#respond Thu, 13 Mar 2025 14:08:51 +0000 https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/?p=222469 The Cincinnati Bengals cannot afford to pay the talent on the roster, which is why they permitted Trey Hendrickson to seek a trade. Originally joining the team as a free agent in 2021, the Florida Atlantic product has been one of the most dominant pass rushers over the past five seasons and remains productive despite being on the wrong side of 30. Last year, Hendrickson finished the season with a league-best 17.5 sacks and 36 quarterback hits while earning First-Team All-Pro honors and finishing second in Defensive Player of the Year voting.

While he is still a great player, the Bengals are prioritizing extensions for younger, homegrown talents in wide receivers Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase. Trey Hendrickson wants a raise of his own, and ESPN's Dianna Russini reports that multiple teams are interested in a trade for the Bengals star. However, while they're willing to meet Hendrickson's contract demands, they're reportedly turned off by Cincinnati's "ridiculous" asking price.

Teams are willing to pay Trey Hendrickson the contract that he desires but have found Cincinnati’s current asking price to be “ridiculous,” as one GM told me.

The Bengals can adjust as the offseason progresses, but right now, teams aren’t willing to meet their terms.

[image or embed]

— Dianna Russini (@diannarussini.bsky.social) March 13, 2025 at 9:22 AM

REPORT: Bengals Sabotaging Trey Hendrickson Trade Talks With "Ridiculous" Asking Price

Russini didn't report on the specifics of Cincinnati's asking price, or the teams that are reportedly interested. However, it's safe to assume the Bengals will lower their asking price to facilitate a Trey Hendrickson trade. At the end of the day, Cincinnati does not have the money to pay Higgins, Chase, Hendrickson, and quarterback Joe Burrow, and the pass rusher is easily the most expendable member of the quartet. While he is a fantastic player, nobody is choosing a 31-year-old over young, homegrown talent.

The other teams in the league, however, should be aggressively pursuing Hendrickson. All 32 teams would love to have a player like him on the roster, but the following three make the most sense.

Possible Next Teams

Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions have been one of the league's best teams over the past two seasons, but they've yet to make it to the Super Bowl. Following a 15-win 2024, the Lions went one-and-done against an upstart Washington Commanders team and lost both coordinators to head coaching positions. Now, head coach Dan Campbell must bring in more on-field talent to compensate for the coaching changes. Aidan Hutchinson will return in 2025, but this team needs another reliable edge rusher. If they trade with the Bengals for Trey Hendrickson, the Lions could have the league's most dangerous pass-rushing duo.

Carolina Panthers

The Carolina Panthers are not traditional contenders, but they are on the rise. Quarterback Bryce Young came alive in the back half of the season, and this team could compete in a weak NFC South if Young carries his strong finish into 2025. However, winning a playoff game won't happen without considerable improvement on the defensive side of the ball. Trey Hendrickson is perhaps the best defensive lineman available, and trading for him should nullify the effects of narrowly losing out on former Eagle Milton Williams.

Los Angeles Chargers

The Los Angeles Chargers retained Khalil Mack but had to part ways with Joey Bosa. While injuries and an inflated cap number made Bosa's release inevitable, Jim Harbaugh's squad could still use another pass rusher. Trey Hendrickson is the perfect choice for the job, as Los Angeles should be all-in and needs a strong defense to slow down Patrick Mahomes, Bo Nix, and Geno Smith.

Main Photo: Kareem Elgazzar - Imagn Images

The post REPORT: Bengals “Ridiculous” Demands Could Prevent Blockbuster Trade appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

]]>

The Cincinnati Bengals cannot afford to pay the talent on the roster, which is why they permitted Trey Hendrickson to seek a trade. Originally joining the team as a free agent in 2021, the Florida Atlantic product has been one of the most dominant pass rushers over the past five seasons and remains productive despite being on the wrong side of 30. Last year, Hendrickson finished the season with a league-best 17.5 sacks and 36 quarterback hits while earning First-Team All-Pro honors and finishing second in Defensive Player of the Year voting.

While he is still a great player, the Bengals are prioritizing extensions for younger, homegrown talents in wide receivers Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase. Trey Hendrickson wants a raise of his own, and ESPN’s Dianna Russini reports that multiple teams are interested in a trade for the Bengals star. However, while they’re willing to meet Hendrickson’s contract demands, they’re reportedly turned off by Cincinnati’s “ridiculous” asking price.

Teams are willing to pay Trey Hendrickson the contract that he desires but have found Cincinnati’s current asking price to be “ridiculous,” as one GM told me.

The Bengals can adjust as the offseason progresses, but right now, teams aren’t willing to meet their terms.

[image or embed]

— Dianna Russini (@diannarussini.bsky.social) March 13, 2025 at 9:22 AM

REPORT: Bengals Sabotaging Trey Hendrickson Trade Talks With “Ridiculous” Asking Price

Russini didn’t report on the specifics of Cincinnati’s asking price, or the teams that are reportedly interested. However, it’s safe to assume the Bengals will lower their asking price to facilitate a Trey Hendrickson trade. At the end of the day, Cincinnati does not have the money to pay Higgins, Chase, Hendrickson, and quarterback Joe Burrow, and the pass rusher is easily the most expendable member of the quartet. While he is a fantastic player, nobody is choosing a 31-year-old over young, homegrown talent.

The other teams in the league, however, should be aggressively pursuing Hendrickson. All 32 teams would love to have a player like him on the roster, but the following three make the most sense.

Possible Next Teams

Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions have been one of the league’s best teams over the past two seasons, but they’ve yet to make it to the Super Bowl. Following a 15-win 2024, the Lions went one-and-done against an upstart Washington Commanders team and lost both coordinators to head coaching positions. Now, head coach Dan Campbell must bring in more on-field talent to compensate for the coaching changes. Aidan Hutchinson will return in 2025, but this team needs another reliable edge rusher. If they trade with the Bengals for Trey Hendrickson, the Lions could have the league’s most dangerous pass-rushing duo.

Carolina Panthers

The Carolina Panthers are not traditional contenders, but they are on the rise. Quarterback Bryce Young came alive in the back half of the season, and this team could compete in a weak NFC South if Young carries his strong finish into 2025. However, winning a playoff game won’t happen without considerable improvement on the defensive side of the ball. Trey Hendrickson is perhaps the best defensive lineman available, and trading for him should nullify the effects of narrowly losing out on former Eagle Milton Williams.

Los Angeles Chargers

The Los Angeles Chargers retained Khalil Mack but had to part ways with Joey Bosa. While injuries and an inflated cap number made Bosa’s release inevitable, Jim Harbaugh’s squad could still use another pass rusher. Trey Hendrickson is the perfect choice for the job, as Los Angeles should be all-in and needs a strong defense to slow down Patrick Mahomes, Bo Nix, and Geno Smith.

Main Photo: Kareem Elgazzar – Imagn Images

The post REPORT: Bengals “Ridiculous” Demands Could Prevent Blockbuster Trade appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

]]> https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/13/report-bengals-ridiculous-demands-prevent-trey-hendrickson-trade/feed/ 0 The Cincinnati Bengals Roster Has Clear Unaddressed Deficiencies https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/12/the-cincinnati-bengals-roster-has-clear-unaddressed-deficiencies/ https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/12/the-cincinnati-bengals-roster-has-clear-unaddressed-deficiencies/#respond Wed, 12 Mar 2025 18:23:50 +0000 https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/?p=222223 The official beginning of free agency is set to kick off on Wednesday afternoon. Through the first two days of the unofficial legal tampering period, the Bengals have made a few moves and shored up a few spots. But, even with those signings, the Bengals roster is still lacking. Obviously, the draft will be used to add talent. However, the Bengals are not going to hit on every single pick, and, as of the beginning of the league year, the team only has six picks.

ESPN Senior NFL Writer Mike Clay has unit grades for the league, and the Bengals look good in a few spots (quarterback, wide receiver) while a handful of units are lacking. All in all, as it stands, Cincinnati has the ninth-best roster, carried by the ninth-best offense. The defense, unsurprisingly, is graded as the 23rd-best in the NFL, easily the worst in the AFC North. And that's with Trey Hendrickson still on the roster.

The free agent pool is getting shallow, and there are a few players still out there who can step in and help in 2025. But there aren't many.

https://twitter.com/MikeClayNFL/status/1899476397971628199

The Cincinnati Bengals Roster Has Clear Unaddressed Deficiencies

Deja Vu: Protect Joe Burrow

The unit that is tied for the worst on the roster is the offensive line. Massive shocker.

The tackle positions are settled. Orlando Brown, Jr., when he was healthy, was solid. Amarius Mims looked like a rookie but had flashes of what he could be. Ted Karras was, hands down, the best lineman on the team last year. It's the two guards that's the biggest concern.

As of now, the Bengals have Cordell Volson, Cody Ford, Jaxson Kirkland, and Tashawn Manning on the roster. Considering the guards were the weakness last year, the unit is currently worse. Volson has been the starter over the last few seasons and has outplayed his expectations. Considering he was a fourth-round pick from the FCS, those expectations were not high. He was an older prospect, so he was closer to his ceiling than not. Ford was not good, nor has he been good. However, he's a body, and the Bengals signed him to a two-year, $6 million deal. Sure, he was better when filling in at left guard when Mims was healthy, but being better than he was at tackle is an easy bar to clear.

In free agency, it's been reported that the Bengals are interested in former Chicago Bear, Teven Jenkins. A former popular pick in the 2021 draft, the Bengals have a chance to right a proverbial wrong, considering the team could have picked him with the 38th pick. Alas, the Bengals traded back, Jenkins went to Chicago, and the Bengals picked Jackson Carman, who was cut before his rookie contract was up. Is Jenkins Quenton Nelson? No. Is he a significant upgrade at guard? Absolutely.

Other options are former Bengal, Kevin Zeitler, Dalton Risner, Brandon Scherff, and Will Hernandez. Ideally, the team signs at least two free agents and adds a draft pick. Donovan Jackson, Marcus Mbow, and Tate Ratledge are a few often-picked interior offensive linemen in mock drafts. Time will tell. Joe Burrow says sacks don't bother him. Lining up Volson and Ford at guard may test that.

Draft Whiffs at Corner

Tied with the offensive line as the worst unit on the Bengals roster is the cornerbacks. In term of athleticism and talent, the Bengals seem to be set with the likes of Cam Taylor-Britt, D.J. Turner, and Dax Hill. However, the reason why this unit is taking such a knock is the fact that both Turner and Hill suffered season-ending injuries last year. Plus, Mike Hilton is not currently on the roster.

Taylor-Britt was very hot-and-cold last year. In some instances, he looked like that lock-down corner the Bengals expected from their 60th overall pick. Over 17 games, CTB amassed 77 tackles, 16 pass breakups, and three interceptions, including a pick-six against the Steelers in Week 13. In other instances, he was routinely picked on as a weakness. Even then, if you buy into Pro Football Focus, he was pretty consistent with his first two seasons.

Turner and Hill battled it out for that CB2 role last year. Hill won the battle but was knocked out after five games. Turner made it 11 games.

Behind them, there's a drop-off, as expected. The team brought back Marco Wilson as depth, and, to this point, that's about it.

When healthy, this grade could be underselling the unit. Clay mentioned in a different thread that injury does knock it down.

Ideally, Hilton finds his way back. He's one of the best run-defending corners and has been a leader on the defense despite just being a slot corner. The rest of the free agent market is not reassuring, either. Jeff Okudah and C.J. Henderson are the best corners younger than 30 at this point. The Bengals will likely draft a corner. However, with just six picks, they're going to need to nail it.

Still Trying to Replace Jessie Bates

https://twitter.com/benga1scentre/status/1895200402825716191

Remember when the Bengals messed around with Jessie Bates and let him walk to make sure they had money to extend Tee Higgins? The team is still scrambling to replace him.

The gamble on Geno Stone failed. Jordan Battle has had flashes but, for some reason, Lou Anarumo elected to play Vonn Bell 708 defensive snaps. Bell, who came back on a veteran minimum deal, was nothing like what he was in his first Bengals stint. Daijahn Anthony played all of 11 snaps and was the target of much ire after his controversial pass interference on 4th and 16 against the Kansas City Chiefs.

There has been little rumblings linking the Bengals to a free-agent safety. Justin Blackmon could be on their radar while the top players are on the wrong side of 30, like Justin Simmons and Rayshawn Jenkins. Xavier Watts is a popular second-round pick among Bengals mock drafts due to the Al Golden connection. If the team wants to get a home-run hitter in the first round, Malaki Starks and Nick Emmanwori could be the move (after a trade back, of course).

Room For Improvement

Saying the Bengals' roster is lacking is not groundbreaking. Joe Burrow's MVP season was wasted, and that dead horse has been beaten to Hell and back. In addition to guard, corner, and safety, running back, tight end, and defensive line (as a whole).

Behind Chase Brown, yeah, the running backs do not provide optimism. However, needing a running back is not the end of the world because this year's NFL Draft class is stacked. Rating the tight ends low is fair. Drew Sample is not a pass-catcher, and Mike Gesicki is just another wide receiver. However, the unit is fine. The Bengals don't utilize their tight ends to the extent that they need multiple playmakers.

Defensive line is a known issue. Trey Hendrickson is still on the roster (and should remain if the Bengals want to have a hope at a half-decent defense). Outside of him, yikes.

Cincinnati did bring back Joseph Ossai as depth and finally signed a nose tackle in TJ Slaton, who is a great run defender but adds nothing to the pass rush. EDGE and defensive tackle are needed in the draft. Walter Nolen has been a popular first-round pick, but Mike Green and James Pearce, Jr. are possibilities.

All in all, there is still a lot of work to be done if the Bengals are going to get back to the playoffs.

Main Image: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

The post The Cincinnati Bengals Roster Has Clear Unaddressed Deficiencies appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

]]>

The official beginning of free agency is set to kick off on Wednesday afternoon. Through the first two days of the unofficial legal tampering period, the Bengals have made a few moves and shored up a few spots. But, even with those signings, the Bengals roster is still lacking. Obviously, the draft will be used to add talent. However, the Bengals are not going to hit on every single pick, and, as of the beginning of the league year, the team only has six picks.

ESPN Senior NFL Writer Mike Clay has unit grades for the league, and the Bengals look good in a few spots (quarterback, wide receiver) while a handful of units are lacking. All in all, as it stands, Cincinnati has the ninth-best roster, carried by the ninth-best offense. The defense, unsurprisingly, is graded as the 23rd-best in the NFL, easily the worst in the AFC North. And that’s with Trey Hendrickson still on the roster.

The free agent pool is getting shallow, and there are a few players still out there who can step in and help in 2025. But there aren’t many.

The Cincinnati Bengals Roster Has Clear Unaddressed Deficiencies

Deja Vu: Protect Joe Burrow

The unit that is tied for the worst on the roster is the offensive line. Massive shocker.

The tackle positions are settled. Orlando Brown, Jr., when he was healthy, was solid. Amarius Mims looked like a rookie but had flashes of what he could be. Ted Karras was, hands down, the best lineman on the team last year. It’s the two guards that’s the biggest concern.

As of now, the Bengals have Cordell Volson, Cody Ford, Jaxson Kirkland, and Tashawn Manning on the roster. Considering the guards were the weakness last year, the unit is currently worse. Volson has been the starter over the last few seasons and has outplayed his expectations. Considering he was a fourth-round pick from the FCS, those expectations were not high. He was an older prospect, so he was closer to his ceiling than not. Ford was not good, nor has he been good. However, he’s a body, and the Bengals signed him to a two-year, $6 million deal. Sure, he was better when filling in at left guard when Mims was healthy, but being better than he was at tackle is an easy bar to clear.

In free agency, it’s been reported that the Bengals are interested in former Chicago Bear, Teven Jenkins. A former popular pick in the 2021 draft, the Bengals have a chance to right a proverbial wrong, considering the team could have picked him with the 38th pick. Alas, the Bengals traded back, Jenkins went to Chicago, and the Bengals picked Jackson Carman, who was cut before his rookie contract was up. Is Jenkins Quenton Nelson? No. Is he a significant upgrade at guard? Absolutely.

Other options are former Bengal, Kevin Zeitler, Dalton Risner, Brandon Scherff, and Will Hernandez. Ideally, the team signs at least two free agents and adds a draft pick. Donovan Jackson, Marcus Mbow, and Tate Ratledge are a few often-picked interior offensive linemen in mock drafts. Time will tell. Joe Burrow says sacks don’t bother him. Lining up Volson and Ford at guard may test that.

Draft Whiffs at Corner

Tied with the offensive line as the worst unit on the Bengals roster is the cornerbacks. In term of athleticism and talent, the Bengals seem to be set with the likes of Cam Taylor-Britt, D.J. Turner, and Dax Hill. However, the reason why this unit is taking such a knock is the fact that both Turner and Hill suffered season-ending injuries last year. Plus, Mike Hilton is not currently on the roster.

Taylor-Britt was very hot-and-cold last year. In some instances, he looked like that lock-down corner the Bengals expected from their 60th overall pick. Over 17 games, CTB amassed 77 tackles, 16 pass breakups, and three interceptions, including a pick-six against the Steelers in Week 13. In other instances, he was routinely picked on as a weakness. Even then, if you buy into Pro Football Focus, he was pretty consistent with his first two seasons.

Turner and Hill battled it out for that CB2 role last year. Hill won the battle but was knocked out after five games. Turner made it 11 games.

Behind them, there’s a drop-off, as expected. The team brought back Marco Wilson as depth, and, to this point, that’s about it.

When healthy, this grade could be underselling the unit. Clay mentioned in a different thread that injury does knock it down.

Ideally, Hilton finds his way back. He’s one of the best run-defending corners and has been a leader on the defense despite just being a slot corner. The rest of the free agent market is not reassuring, either. Jeff Okudah and C.J. Henderson are the best corners younger than 30 at this point. The Bengals will likely draft a corner. However, with just six picks, they’re going to need to nail it.

Still Trying to Replace Jessie Bates

Remember when the Bengals messed around with Jessie Bates and let him walk to make sure they had money to extend Tee Higgins? The team is still scrambling to replace him.

The gamble on Geno Stone failed. Jordan Battle has had flashes but, for some reason, Lou Anarumo elected to play Vonn Bell 708 defensive snaps. Bell, who came back on a veteran minimum deal, was nothing like what he was in his first Bengals stint. Daijahn Anthony played all of 11 snaps and was the target of much ire after his controversial pass interference on 4th and 16 against the Kansas City Chiefs.

There has been little rumblings linking the Bengals to a free-agent safety. Justin Blackmon could be on their radar while the top players are on the wrong side of 30, like Justin Simmons and Rayshawn Jenkins. Xavier Watts is a popular second-round pick among Bengals mock drafts due to the Al Golden connection. If the team wants to get a home-run hitter in the first round, Malaki Starks and Nick Emmanwori could be the move (after a trade back, of course).

Room For Improvement

Saying the Bengals’ roster is lacking is not groundbreaking. Joe Burrow‘s MVP season was wasted, and that dead horse has been beaten to Hell and back. In addition to guard, corner, and safety, running back, tight end, and defensive line (as a whole).

Behind Chase Brown, yeah, the running backs do not provide optimism. However, needing a running back is not the end of the world because this year’s NFL Draft class is stacked. Rating the tight ends low is fair. Drew Sample is not a pass-catcher, and Mike Gesicki is just another wide receiver. However, the unit is fine. The Bengals don’t utilize their tight ends to the extent that they need multiple playmakers.

Defensive line is a known issue. Trey Hendrickson is still on the roster (and should remain if the Bengals want to have a hope at a half-decent defense). Outside of him, yikes.

Cincinnati did bring back Joseph Ossai as depth and finally signed a nose tackle in TJ Slaton, who is a great run defender but adds nothing to the pass rush. EDGE and defensive tackle are needed in the draft. Walter Nolen has been a popular first-round pick, but Mike Green and James Pearce, Jr. are possibilities.

All in all, there is still a lot of work to be done if the Bengals are going to get back to the playoffs.

Main Image: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

The post The Cincinnati Bengals Roster Has Clear Unaddressed Deficiencies appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

]]> https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/12/the-cincinnati-bengals-roster-has-clear-unaddressed-deficiencies/feed/ 0 First Day of Bengals Free Agency Showed Hendrickson Must Be Extended https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/11/first-day-of-bengals-free-agency-showed-hendrickson-must-be-extended/ https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/11/first-day-of-bengals-free-agency-showed-hendrickson-must-be-extended/#respond Tue, 11 Mar 2025 13:30:26 +0000 https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/?p=221964 On Monday, the NFL's unofficial start to the year kicked off with the defacto "legal tampering period." Over the first 12 hours of unofficial free agency, the Cincinnati Bengals made a few moves. All in all, it was a good start. However, it showed even more that the Bengals free agency haul must include a Trey Hendrickson extension.

There were a few trades that shook up the day. But, in between Twitter outages, there was no news of a Hendrickson trade. The team allowed Hendrickson's camp to test out the market to see what other teams were willing to give him in the form of an extension, allowing them to match. His agent told the Bengals that they could fetch a first-round pick, but to this point, no such trade has revealed itself. Of course, it's incredibly early in the 2025 offseason, but it's starting to look like both the Bengals and Hendrickson would do best to resolve this saga with a reunion.

Add in the recent report that teams are "turned off" by the Bengals' high asking price, and something is going to have to break. The Bengals rarely trade. They never trade unless they view themselves as the obvious winner of the trade.

First Day of Bengals Free Agency Showed Hendrickson Must Be Extended

Last year, the Bengals' defense was as soft as any in recent memory. And that was with First-Team All-Pro, second-place Defensive Player of the Year, 17.5-sack Trey Hendrickson. The Bengals, outside of Hendrickson, managed a grand total of 18.5 sacks. One player contributed nearly half of all sacks.

Take him away, and the Bengals can kiss the likelihood of returning to playoffs goodbye. Joe Burrow played at an MVP level and had his campaign hamstrung by the Bengals' inability to win big games, thanks to the defense. Al Golden may be a great defensive coordinator but losing Hendrickson would make his job infinitely harder.

Odds are, no draft pick would be able to come in and replicate Hendrickson's production. Even if they managed to get a first-round pick in the trade and drafted both Mike Green and James Pearce Jr., since Abdul Carter is out of the question. Realistically, Carter may be the only EDGE with that day-one impact to even make a Hendrickson trade worth it.

Add in the fact that none of the external free agents headed to Cincinnati are pass rushers, and a future without Hendrickson is bleak. B.J. Hill is a depth piece on the interior. Joseph Ossai is depth at EDGE. New Bengal TJ Slaton is a run stuffer and will give the team nothing on passing downs. There is no pass-rushing juice on the Bengals if they trade Hendrickson away.

Would It Be Worth It?

Let's say the Bengals manage to trade Hendrickson away. To start, the only teams likely willing to part with their first-round picks are playoff teams. If it's not a playoff team, an early-to-mid-second-round pick is likely. There is not likely going to be a pass-rusher on the board on either the Bengals pick 17 or the one they get in a trade that makes up for the loss.

There's a possibility that there is. However, do you trust the team to make the right decision and draft the right player?

The last 10 first-round selections by the Bengals were Amarius Mims, Myles Murphy, Daxton Hill, Ja'Marr Chase, Joe Burrow, Jonah Williams, Billy Price, John Ross, William Jackson III, and Cedric Ogbuehi. The two top-five picks were home runs. Williams was solid but not signed to a second contract. The team has no idea what to do with Hill. Murphy hasn't shown that he is worth that first-round pedigree just yet, although it's early. Mims is good but still a bit raw.

It's possible that the Bengals use a pick on a guy like Pearce, who many draft experts are dropping on their boards due to character concerns. He's a solid prospect. However, there are concerns, like how he performed in Tennessee's biggest game of the year against an NFL-bound player out of position. If he is drafted to complement Hendrickson, fine. If he is drafted to replace Hendrickson, there may be an issue.

The Bengals' approach to scouting is archaic. Their scouting department is the smallest in the NFL. Have they earned the trust of the fanbase when it comes to drafting well?

Extending Hendrickson is the right move. If the team drafted as well as the Kansas City Chiefs or Philadelphia Eagles, it would make sense to cast as wide of a net as possible in the draft. Considering it doesn't, it makes more sense to secure the players they know are good (hint hint nudge nudge). Last year's sack king will not come cheap but realistically, what leverage do the Bengals have? Sure, he's under contract for 2025, but that defense goes from bad to Kent State-level atrocious.

Just pay the man.

The post First Day of Bengals Free Agency Showed Hendrickson Must Be Extended appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

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On Monday, the NFL’s unofficial start to the year kicked off with the defacto “legal tampering period.” Over the first 12 hours of unofficial free agency, the Cincinnati Bengals made a few moves. All in all, it was a good start. However, it showed even more that the Bengals free agency haul must include a Trey Hendrickson extension.

There were a few trades that shook up the day. But, in between Twitter outages, there was no news of a Hendrickson trade. The team allowed Hendrickson’s camp to test out the market to see what other teams were willing to give him in the form of an extension, allowing them to match. His agent told the Bengals that they could fetch a first-round pick, but to this point, no such trade has revealed itself. Of course, it’s incredibly early in the 2025 offseason, but it’s starting to look like both the Bengals and Hendrickson would do best to resolve this saga with a reunion.

Add in the recent report that teams are “turned off” by the Bengals’ high asking price, and something is going to have to break. The Bengals rarely trade. They never trade unless they view themselves as the obvious winner of the trade.

First Day of Bengals Free Agency Showed Hendrickson Must Be Extended

Last year, the Bengals’ defense was as soft as any in recent memory. And that was with First-Team All-Pro, second-place Defensive Player of the Year, 17.5-sack Trey Hendrickson. The Bengals, outside of Hendrickson, managed a grand total of 18.5 sacks. One player contributed nearly half of all sacks.

Take him away, and the Bengals can kiss the likelihood of returning to playoffs goodbye. Joe Burrow played at an MVP level and had his campaign hamstrung by the Bengals’ inability to win big games, thanks to the defense. Al Golden may be a great defensive coordinator but losing Hendrickson would make his job infinitely harder.

Odds are, no draft pick would be able to come in and replicate Hendrickson’s production. Even if they managed to get a first-round pick in the trade and drafted both Mike Green and James Pearce Jr., since Abdul Carter is out of the question. Realistically, Carter may be the only EDGE with that day-one impact to even make a Hendrickson trade worth it.

Add in the fact that none of the external free agents headed to Cincinnati are pass rushers, and a future without Hendrickson is bleak. B.J. Hill is a depth piece on the interior. Joseph Ossai is depth at EDGE. New Bengal TJ Slaton is a run stuffer and will give the team nothing on passing downs. There is no pass-rushing juice on the Bengals if they trade Hendrickson away.

Would It Be Worth It?

Let’s say the Bengals manage to trade Hendrickson away. To start, the only teams likely willing to part with their first-round picks are playoff teams. If it’s not a playoff team, an early-to-mid-second-round pick is likely. There is not likely going to be a pass-rusher on the board on either the Bengals pick 17 or the one they get in a trade that makes up for the loss.

There’s a possibility that there is. However, do you trust the team to make the right decision and draft the right player?

The last 10 first-round selections by the Bengals were Amarius Mims, Myles Murphy, Daxton Hill, Ja’Marr Chase, Joe Burrow, Jonah Williams, Billy Price, John Ross, William Jackson III, and Cedric Ogbuehi. The two top-five picks were home runs. Williams was solid but not signed to a second contract. The team has no idea what to do with Hill. Murphy hasn’t shown that he is worth that first-round pedigree just yet, although it’s early. Mims is good but still a bit raw.

It’s possible that the Bengals use a pick on a guy like Pearce, who many draft experts are dropping on their boards due to character concerns. He’s a solid prospect. However, there are concerns, like how he performed in Tennessee’s biggest game of the year against an NFL-bound player out of position. If he is drafted to complement Hendrickson, fine. If he is drafted to replace Hendrickson, there may be an issue.

The Bengals’ approach to scouting is archaic. Their scouting department is the smallest in the NFL. Have they earned the trust of the fanbase when it comes to drafting well?

Extending Hendrickson is the right move. If the team drafted as well as the Kansas City Chiefs or Philadelphia Eagles, it would make sense to cast as wide of a net as possible in the draft. Considering it doesn’t, it makes more sense to secure the players they know are good (hint hint nudge nudge). Last year’s sack king will not come cheap but realistically, what leverage do the Bengals have? Sure, he’s under contract for 2025, but that defense goes from bad to Kent State-level atrocious.

Just pay the man.

The post First Day of Bengals Free Agency Showed Hendrickson Must Be Extended appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

]]> https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/11/first-day-of-bengals-free-agency-showed-hendrickson-must-be-extended/feed/ 0 9-Sack Veteran Signs Contract With Cincinnati Bengals https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/10/joseph-ossai-signs-contract-bengals/ https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/10/joseph-ossai-signs-contract-bengals/#respond Tue, 11 Mar 2025 03:58:21 +0000 https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/?p=218845 Four-year veteran edge defender Joseph Ossai signed a new contract with the Cincinnati Bengals. Ossai, a former third-round pick, returns to the Bengals on a one-year deal.

Bengals FA DE Joseph Ossai is expected to sign with the …. Bengals on a 1-year, $7M deal

[image or embed]

— Ian Rapoport (@rapsheet1.bsky.social) March 10, 2025 at 8:29 PM

Joseph Ossai, Bengals, Agree to Contract

The final year of Joseph Ossai's rookie contract was arguably the best of his young career. Appearing in all 17 games while making three seasons, the pass rusher finished the season with five sacks, 46 tackles, four tackles-for-loss, and 15 quarterback hits - all career highs - while his 58.3 PFF grade made him the 85th-best at his position out of 119 eligible players. Despite his decent play, the Bengals defense was one of the worst in the league and was the largest catalyst in the team missing the playoffs.

Joseph Ossai originally entered the league as a third-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. Selected by the Cincinnati Bengals, the Texas product was supposed to help a woebegone franchise return to relevance. Unfortunately, he suffered a season-ending injury in the preseason and missed his entire rookie season. Without him, the Bengals made the playoffs and advanced to the Super Bowl before narrowly losing to Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams.

Ossai returned to action in 2022 but couldn't claim a starting spot. Playing in a situational role, the former third-round pick finished his de-facto rookie season with 3.5 sacks, 17 tackles, two tackles-for-loss, and 10 quarterback hits while appearing in 16 games without making a start. Cincinnati once again went on a deep playoff run but lost to the eventual Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game.

He followed that up with a similar season in 2023. Appearing in 14 games, Ossai recorded one sack, 10 tackles, one tackle-for-loss, and seven quarterback hits in a reserve role. With Joe Burrow battling injury, the Bengals missed the playoffs for the first time since 2020.

Since signing his rookie contract, Joseph Ossai has recorded 9.5 sacks, 73 tackles, seven tackles-for-loss, and 32 quarterback hits.

Main Photo: Albert Cesare - Imagn Images

The post 9-Sack Veteran Signs Contract With Cincinnati Bengals appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

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Four-year veteran edge defender Joseph Ossai signed a new contract with the Cincinnati Bengals. Ossai, a former third-round pick, returns to the Bengals on a one-year deal.

Bengals FA DE Joseph Ossai is expected to sign with the …. Bengals on a 1-year, $7M deal

[image or embed]

— Ian Rapoport (@rapsheet1.bsky.social) March 10, 2025 at 8:29 PM

Joseph Ossai, Bengals, Agree to Contract

The final year of Joseph Ossai’s rookie contract was arguably the best of his young career. Appearing in all 17 games while making three seasons, the pass rusher finished the season with five sacks, 46 tackles, four tackles-for-loss, and 15 quarterback hits – all career highs – while his 58.3 PFF grade made him the 85th-best at his position out of 119 eligible players. Despite his decent play, the Bengals defense was one of the worst in the league and was the largest catalyst in the team missing the playoffs.

Joseph Ossai originally entered the league as a third-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. Selected by the Cincinnati Bengals, the Texas product was supposed to help a woebegone franchise return to relevance. Unfortunately, he suffered a season-ending injury in the preseason and missed his entire rookie season. Without him, the Bengals made the playoffs and advanced to the Super Bowl before narrowly losing to Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams.

Ossai returned to action in 2022 but couldn’t claim a starting spot. Playing in a situational role, the former third-round pick finished his de-facto rookie season with 3.5 sacks, 17 tackles, two tackles-for-loss, and 10 quarterback hits while appearing in 16 games without making a start. Cincinnati once again went on a deep playoff run but lost to the eventual Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game.

He followed that up with a similar season in 2023. Appearing in 14 games, Ossai recorded one sack, 10 tackles, one tackle-for-loss, and seven quarterback hits in a reserve role. With Joe Burrow battling injury, the Bengals missed the playoffs for the first time since 2020.

Since signing his rookie contract, Joseph Ossai has recorded 9.5 sacks, 73 tackles, seven tackles-for-loss, and 32 quarterback hits.

Main Photo: Albert Cesare – Imagn Images

The post 9-Sack Veteran Signs Contract With Cincinnati Bengals appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.

]]> https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2025/03/10/joseph-ossai-signs-contract-bengals/feed/ 0