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Bengals' defense faces tough question on two players that fans should worry about
TL;DR
The Cincinnati Bengals are focusing on improving their defense after a disappointing 2025 season. Two key players are under scrutiny to determine the success of these changes.
Key points
- Bengals aim to improve their defense this offseason
- Offense led by Joe Burrow is strong enough for a Super Bowl run
- Defense was a major issue during the 2025 season
- Two players are crucial for the defense's success
- Offseason moves have made the defense look better
Mentioned in this story
Joe BurrowBen Solak
Cincinnati Bengals
Bengals' defense faces tough question on two players that fans should worry about originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Cincinnati Bengals had one goal this offseason: improve the defensive side of the ball. Joe Burrow and the offense are more than good enough to go on a Super Bowl run.
The same cannot be said about their defense, which was a massive issue during the 2025 season. Now, after a ton of offseason moves, it's looking a whole lot better.
But, as ESPN's Ben Solak highlighted, two players are the integral question to whether this defense can truly turn things around.
"Can the Bengals' linebackers answer the call?" Solak writes. "The table has been set for them to rise to the challenge. It's hard to see the Bengals' defense taking a leap if someone in this linebacker unit doesn't take it individually."
Bengals fans should be worried about the defense turning things around in 2026, especially since, as Solak called out, they will need one of Demetrius Knight Jr. or to turn into a good linebacker.
Q&A
What are the main concerns about the Bengals' defense for the upcoming season?
The main concerns revolve around the performance of two specific players whose contributions will be critical for the defense's improvement.
How did the Bengals' defense perform in the 2025 season?
The Bengals' defense was a significant issue during the 2025 season, prompting the team to make numerous offseason changes.
Who are the two players that fans should worry about on the Bengals' defense?
The article highlights two players as integral to the Bengals' defensive turnaround, though their names are not specified in the excerpt.