The Cincinnati Bengals are entering the upcoming off-season with a clear and urgent focus: bolstering their defense since this area has proven to be a key factor in both their recent struggles and potential for future success. But here's where it gets controversial—can simply adding more talent truly fix the defensive issues, or are leadership and strategic changes equally vital? As Bengals' Director of Player Personnel Duke Tobin highlighted during a 63-minute media session at Paycor Stadium, the team's priority is to find and develop players who can elevate their defensive performance.
Tobin specifically commended Defensive Coordinator Al Golden for his role in turning the defense around in the final eight games of the season, during which the unit allowed fewer than 18 points per game. "We need an increase in talent on that side of the ball, and there's no question about it," Tobin emphasized. "We'll evaluate and see how much progress we can make. When a team is heading in the right direction, it's a direct result of good coaching and positive leadership from within the team. That gives me hope we'll figure this out."
Adding to the challenge is the absence of veteran leadership on defense—one captain was sidelined for the last eight games, and another was traded just before the November 4 trade deadline. Tobin expressed a desire to see multiple players step up and assume leadership roles, whether from inside the organization or through new signings. "On offense, we have plenty of leadership. What we need now are players on the defensive side willing to step up and lead from within," he stated.
Beyond personnel and leadership, Tobin touched on the Bengals' approach to free agency. With the core of young stars like Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins now firmly established through recent mega deals, the team isn’t shying away from pursuing a recurring free agency strategy seen in 2021. "This approach can work if managed correctly," Tobin said. "It’s a competitive league—there are 31 other teams eyeing the same quality players, so we need to be strategic."
The organization has historically been cautious about guaranteed money—preferring to limit guaranteed contracts beyond the first year—but Tobin indicated they are open to flexibility if it means acquiring key players. "We’re prepared to do whatever it takes to build a championship team," he emphasized, highlighting the organization's strong commitment to winning.
Tobin also confirmed that the Bengals will retain much of the same scouting staff that helped evaluate notable free agents and constructed their 2023 draft class, which includes promising prospects like second-round cornerback DJ Turner II and fifth-round running back Chase Brown. The team also plans to extend the contracts of several players, including their emerging star cornerback Dax Hill, a first-round pick from this decade that features Burrow, Chase, and now Mims as key pieces.
He pointed out that their scouting and decision-making processes are highly thorough, ensuring they have extensive background information on every player considered. "We’ve never lacked knowledge about our picks—never selected a player without multiple reports and background checks. The real issue is at the decision point—if we make a mistake, it’s because of a wrong judgment, not a lack of information."
Lastly, Tobin addressed the team’s recurring problem of last-minute losses, which have prevented Cincinnati from reaching the playoffs over the past three seasons. He stressed that all levels—from scouts to coaches—must actively work to improve in closing out games. "Finishing strong needs to become part of our DNA. The last few seasons have been frustrating—we've lost many close games, often by a single score. That’s not acceptable, and it’s something we must fix."
He expressed that the last game against Cleveland, a narrow 20-18 loss with a solid defensive effort, is emblematic of this ongoing issue. "It’s annoying—really irritating. When the game is on the line, we need to find ways to win. We’re capable of competing with any team in this league, but we must learn to close those tight games more consistently. This has to change."
And this is the part most people overlook—the Bengals' ability to compete isn't the real problem; it's their capacity to close out victories that could turn a good season into a great one. What are your thoughts? Do you believe strengthening the defense and adding leadership will be enough to turn things around, or is there more strategic overhaul needed? Share your opinions below!
