The Cincinnati Bengals posted the most pronounced defensive efficiency gain in a decade during the latter half of the 2025 season, climbing from historically low first‑half DVOA rankings to a markedly stronger second‑half performance that positioned the unit among the league’s most improved.
A Defensive Renaissance in Cincinnati
The centerpiece of the overhaul was the acquisition of Dexter Lawrence, a premier defensive tackle whose inside run‑stuffing and pass‑rushing prowess have been likened to the legacy of Geno Atkins since his retirement. Complementing Lawrence, veteran Jonathan Allen joined the rotation after logging 810 snaps for Minnesota in 2025, adding depth and experience.
Re‑shaping the Pass Rush
Rookie Landon Robinson made an immediate impact, tallying 16 tackles in the preseason opener against Detroit, while the team also brought in Boye Mafe and second‑round pick Cashius Howell to replenish the pass‑rush pipeline after Trey Hendrickson’s departure. With Myles Murphy and Shemar Stewart slated to share starter duties, the Bengals aim to move beyond the previous ‘Trey or Nothing’ model, distributing pressure across a more balanced front.
The secondary, still thin on experience, will rely on rookies Tacario Davis and Kyle Duggar to provide depth behind starters D.J. Turner and Dax Hill, while safety Bryan Cook is projected to outperform the inconsistent play of Geno Stone.
Offensive Uncertainties
On the other side of the ball, the offensive line remains a question mark. Veteran left tackle Orlando Brown’s re‑signing has sparked concerns about his current level of play, and the team’s willingness to shift Joe Burrow into under‑center formations remains undecided, with shotgun still dominating critical moments.
Despite these challenges, the Bengals’ front office emphasizes that the defensive revamp, coupled with a more nuanced offensive approach, could finally translate into a sustained competitive window for the franchise.