The Cincinnati Bengals have some questions at cornerback. While DJ Turner II appears to be a breakout star, the other primary boundary cornerback, Dax Hill has been sidelined with hamstring tightness. In training camp, that is the perfect opportunity for a player lower on the depth chart to prove themselves.
With Hill sidelined, DJ Ivey and rookie Tacario Davis have had a chance for extended opportunities to show coaches what they can do. Going against two of the best receivers in the NFL in Ja’Marr
Chase and Tee Higgins is not only good practice work for them, but a chance to show defensive coordinator Al Golden what they can do against the best of the best.
As of now, it appears Ivey is doing the most with the opportunity.
Bengals News:
1 Bengals training camp bright spot won’t surprise fans
“Ivey has made the most of his time running with the first team, with a pass breakup on a deep post from Burrow to Higgins on Tuesday, then in perfect position to break up another deep ball for Higgins on Thursday. He hasn’t been picked on consistently or caught out of step.”
Ivey has appeared in 36 games since becoming a seventh-round pick in 2023. If camp is any indication, he could be in line for an even bigger role this season.
Bengals Veteran Emerges as Preseason Trade Candidate
“Slaton is currently listed as one of the backup defensive tackles on the Bengals’ depth chart, but he could soon be lapped by players like Landon Robinson and Kris Jenkins. Slaton is on an expiring contract, and it would save the Bengals nearly $7 million by making a move.”
Suddenly, the defensive tackle room has become crowded. After two big offseason additions paired with two premium draft picks in recent years, could Slaton be the odd man out?
New experienced, vocal leaders are setting a tone for the Bengals defense
“Adding high-level talent who have done it before, you’ve seen it on the tape and seen it in their careers,” coach Zac Taylor said. “You add to that the humans they are and the leaders they are. Not only did we add a lot of really talented players, they’re really good in the locker room and aren’t afraid to lead and help everyone else get to the next level.”
There is a different feeling around the Bengals’ defense this offseason and with the players they brought in, it seems that championship experience was a big reason why.
The Black Cloud Hanging Over Zac Taylor and the Bengals Entering 2026
Zac Taylor spoke candidly about the failures of the last three seasons and the impact it has had on him. Heading in to a season where he could be coaching for his job, it appears he is ready to attack 2026 with some tenacity.
Bengals Release Uniform Combination for Preseason Week 1 against Detroit Lions
The Bengals open their preseason at home and we now know the uniform combination they will wear.
