Bengals Target 2026 After Cleansing 2025 Season

The Cincinnati Bengals are setting their sights on 2026 following a challenging 2025 season. Key players and personnel have expressed optimism about the future, emphasizing a strong foundation for success.

Bengals’ Leadership and Coaching Staff

Players attribute much of their confidence to head coach Zac Taylor. Tight end Mike Gesicki praised Taylor’s ability to relate to players and create effective offensive strategies. “Unbelievable head coach,” Gesicki remarked, highlighting the impressive performance of the team’s offense throughout the season.

Offensive Achievements

• Despite utilizing three starting quarterbacks, the Bengals led the AFC in touchdown passes.
• From Joe Flacco’s first start on October 12, the team recorded the second-most touchdown passes in the NFL.
• They also ranked third in passing yards and sixth in total offensive yards.

Running back Chase Brown significantly contributed to the offense, matching Buffalo’s James Cook with eight games of over 100 combined yards since October 16.

Defensive Improvements and Young Talent

The Bengals’ defense also showed considerable growth, particularly after a mid-season bye week. Cornerback DJ Turner II noted the team began to gel, especially with the introduction of a new defensive coordinator.

• Turner praised the contributions of young players stepping up in crucial roles.
• Defensive end Myles Murphy registered a career-high 5.5 sacks, with four of them coming in the final eight games of the season.

Players’ Perspectives on 2026

Turner and safety Dax Hill expressed confidence in the team’s potential for a strong 2026 campaign. Hill stated, “We’ve got that caliber of team to do that,” emphasizing the right mix of talent and experience within the squad.

Throughout the season, Bengals’ players, including Murphy and Ossai, showcased their ability to grow and adapt. Murphy, specifically, has earned recognition as a critical asset moving forward. “Myles became an all-caps dude this year,” Ossai said, noting his increasing confidence and significant contributions.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The Bengals are eager to build on their potential, regrouping under their established coaching staff and leveraging their growing roster. With positive momentum and a commitment to improvement, the future looks promising for Cincinnati as they aim to reclaim their status as contenders in the NFL.