For all but two teams in the NFL, the calendar has changed to the offseason. With NFL Draft prep now starting, many people across the media and the Bengals fandom are wondering, what will the franchise do this offseason?
With one of the best skill position units in the league, there is no question what side of the ball the team needs to address this offseason. The defense. The Bengals have needs all over the defensive side of the ball, but it still seems to be up in the air how they will address them.
Will they go strictly in the draft? Will they try to plug some free agents into starting roles? Will they make a trade?
If you ask Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report, the trade option should be on the table. And should be targeting one of the best defensive linemen in the league… Daron Payne.
“Payne, who logged three sacks, seven tackles for loss, and 46 combined tackles in 2025, is a high-level starter who should draw plenty of interest and bring Washington a solid return in a trade. A team desperate for defensive help, like the Cincinnati Bengals, should be willing to make a strong offer,” wrote Knox.
Splash trades have not really been the mantra of this front office staff, but at the moment, they have to be open to all avenues if they want to turn this ship around. It seems like we are heading into a playoff-or-bust type of situation, and adding a player like Payne would be a huge addition to kick off the offseason.
