While the Bengals look primed for another offensive surge behind Joe Burrow and standout receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, their defense remains a glaring concern. Cincinnati’s defensive unit finished near the bottom in points and yards allowed in 2024, and uncertainty surrounding key players like edge rusher Trey Hendrickson—who is still unsigned—and rookie pick Shemar Stewart delays any potential improvement. With a new defensive coordinator, Al Golden, in charge and a handful of young linebackers and linemen yet to prove themselves, the defense could easily lag behind the offense’s historic potential. Without rapid cohesion or impactful upgrades—especially in the secondary and front seven—the team risks letting its offense carry them alone.