Bengals Lose Two Key Defensive Targets in Free Agency

Bassyonni

Published: March 10, 2026 10:54 PM ET

The Cincinnati Bengals are currently facing challenges in strengthening their linebacker corps during the ongoing offseason. Recent developments in free agency have seen key options slip away, adding urgency to their search.

Bengals Lose Two Key Defensive Targets in Free Agency

According to FOX Sports insider Jordan Schultz, Kaden Elliss has signed a three-year deal worth $33 million with the New Orleans Saints. This agreement comes alongside news that Leo Chenal, another standout linebacker, will join the Washington Commanders for $24.75 million over three years. Both players were among the top remaining free agents at the linebacker position.

Player Profiles

Kaden Elliss:
- Joined Saints after a successful run with the Atlanta Falcons.
- Notable for three consecutive seasons with over 100 tackles.
- Last season recorded 3.5 sacks and six passes defensed.
Leo Chenal:
- Previously played for the Kansas City Chiefs.
- Contributed to two Super Bowl-winning teams.
- In 2025, posted 58 tackles, one interception, and two sacks.

Concerns for the Bengals

The Bengals struggled with linebacker performance last season, likely the weakest in the NFL. New defensive coordinator Al Golden emphasized the need for a more experienced player to support promising young talents like Demetrius Knight Jr. and Barrett Carter.

Golden stated, “We’ve got to get deeper. I would prefer not to ask Demetrius to play on the line of scrimmage as much as we did.” He highlighted the importance of improving the position group to enhance overall team performance.

Remaining Options

With Elliss and Chenal out of the picture, the Bengals are left considering other veteran players, including:

Matt Milano (31 years old)
Lavonte David (36 years old)
Bobby Wagner (35 years old)

Bobby Wagner stands out as a strong candidate due to his undiminished performance. He has consistently achieved high Pro Football Focus grades, exceeding 79 in each of the past four seasons and logging over 1,100 snaps each year since 2019. His one-year contract projection is around $8 million, making him a practical choice to bolster the Bengals’ defense.

Conclusion

The Bengals must act swiftly to reinforce their linebacker unit, crucial for providing support to quarterback Joe Burrow. Finding the right veteran could help position the team for a championship run in the upcoming season.