Though most of the attention is on the start of NFL training camp this week, it's never too early to start looking at the big picture.
The Bengals aren't dealing with any holdouts, but three players are entering the final year of their contracts and are eligible for new deals. Looking ahead to 2027, Cincinnati will have choices to make on who to re-sign and who to let walk.
USA Today broke down thetop 25 potential free agents heading into 2027, and two Cincinnati Bengals found their way onto the list. While there's still plenty of time for the Bengals to make a deal with players entering the final year of their contract, not inking extensions soon would see players hit the open market next offseason.
DJ Turner II, the Bengals' cornerback, came
in at No. 11 on the free-agent rankings. Despite Cincinnati's overall struggles on defense, Turner has established himself as a league-leading ballhawk. He defended 18 passes last season, tied for second-best in the NFL. He's only 25, so he could be a long-term member of the Bengals secondary if they're able to work out a deal. With fellow corner Dax Hill also nearing free agency, Cincinnati will have decisions to make before the offseason comes back around.
No. 19 on the free-agent rankings was running back Chase Brown. The 26-year old rusher, now entering his fourth season with the Bengals, is fresh off his best statistical season. He ran for 1,019 yards and six touchdowns in 2025, also bringing in 437 yards and five touchdowns in the passing game. He led the team in yards from scrimmage which may be difficult to replace in free agency, but the Bengals will have to weigh their options when retaining key offensive pieces.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Two Cincinnati Bengals crack list of top 2027 free agents
