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Bengals projected starting defense in 2026 makes Shemar Stewart look like a bust already
TL;DR
The Cincinnati Bengals are revamping their defense for the 2026 season, aiming to improve after a lackluster performance. Shemar Stewart, the 2025 first-round pick, is projected to be absent from the starting lineup, raising concerns about his future.
Key points
- Cincinnati Bengals are improving their defense for 2026
- Shemar Stewart may not be a starting player
- Joe Burrow leads a strong offense
Cincinnati BengalsShemar StewartJoe Burrow
Bengals projected starting defense in 2026 makes Shemar Stewart look like a bust already originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Cincinnati Bengals are undergoing some major changes on the defensive side of the ball this offseason, as Al Golden's unit needs to take a step in the right direction.
With a great offense led by Joe Burrow, the Bengals' defense needs to turn things around and match the offense. And this offseason was all about improving the defense. The projected starters look a lot better than they did last year.
However, in Gary Davenport of Bleacher Reports' projected starting defense for the Bengals, there is a notable lack of Shemar Stewart, as the 2025 first-rounder is already looking like a bust one year in.
Bengals' projected starting defense in 2026 doesn't include Shemar Stewart
"Defense... Edge: Boye Mafe, ," Davenport writes. "If rookie second-rounder Cashius Howell beats out Myles Murphy on the edge, the Bengals will have four new starters on the defensive line, headlined by Pro Bowl tackle .
Q&A
Why is Shemar Stewart considered a bust for the Bengals?
Shemar Stewart is viewed as a bust due to his projected absence from the starting defense in 2026, just one year after being a first-round pick.
What changes are the Bengals making to their defense for 2026?
The Bengals are making significant changes to their defense this offseason, focusing on improving their overall performance to match their strong offense.
Who are the projected starters for the Bengals' defense in 2026?
The projected starters for the Bengals' defense in 2026 have not been fully detailed, but they are expected to be an improvement over last year's lineup.
