For the first time in the Joe Burrow era, we are not pointing to the offensive line as their biggest weakness heading in to a season. All five starters are returning after a strong season, so that position group seems to be solidified. This season, fans are pointing at the Bengals’ linebacker room as what could hold them back in 2026.
The Bengals were aggressive on the defensive side of the ball this offseason. A blockbuster trade for Dexter Lawrence II, signing top free agent safety Bryan Cook, signing Boye
Mafe, and drafting Cashius Howell were the highlights. Even with those moves, many fans and analysts have pointed to the subpar linebacker play from 2025, and the team’s not addressing it for now.
Demetrius Knight Jr. and Barrett Carter left a lot to be desired after their rookie campaigns, but they both also recorded 100+ tackles in 2025. A defensive line that should be vastly improved will help the two sophomore linebackers, but some say they should add an established veteran like Bobby Wagner.
ESPN recently released its NFL starting lineups rankings, and it appears the lack of movement at linebacker dropped the Bengals, as they came in at No. 15.
“Biggest weakness: Off-ball linebacker. Despite finishing last in pass rush win rate (28.8%) and tackles for loss (56) last season, the Bengals will run it back with a linebacker corps that includes second-year players Barrett Carter and Demetrius Knight Jr., along with veteran Oren Burks. All three struggled badly in 2025, ranking 83rd, 85th, and 88th, respectively, in PFF grade among 88 qualified LBs. Cincinnati hopes Carter and Knight make a big leap in their second pro seasons,“ Mike Clay wrote.
It certainly doesn’t appear that the Bengals viewed linebacker as a big of a need as fans and analysts do, but a veteran signing still isn’t technically off the table.
Do you think the Bengals should make a move at linebacker? Let us know in the comments!
