The Cincinnati Bengals Draft Grade reflects a franchise focused on rebuilding its defense while strengthening the offensive line around quarterback Joe Burrow. Cincinnati enters training camp with playoff expectations and hopes of returning to the top of the AFC North after a disappointing 2025 season.
Round 2 (No. 41) Cashius Howell – EDGE, Texas A&M — Grade: A+
Round 3 (No. 72) Tacario Davis – CB, Washington — Grade: B-
Round 4 (No. 128) Connor Lew – C, Auburn — Grade: A
Round 4 (No. 140) Colbie Young – WR, Georgia — Grade: C+
Round 6 (No. 189) Brian Parker II – IOL, Duke — Grade: A-
Round 7 (No. 221) Jack Endries – TE, Texas — Grade: A
Round 7 (No. 226) Landon Robinson – DL, Navy — Grade: B
CIN Bengals Overall Draft Grade: A-
The Cincinnati Bengals entered the 2026 NFL Draft with one primary goal: improve a defense that struggled throughout the 2025 season. Cincinnati immediately addressed that need by selecting Texas A&M edge rusher Cashius Howell in the second round. While replacing Trey Hendrickson’s production is no easy task, Howell consistently dominated SEC competition and has the athletic tools to become a major contributor early in his NFL career.
The Bengals continued upgrading the defense by adding Washington cornerback Tacario Davis, whose size and length give Cincinnati another intriguing option in the secondary. The front office also found tremendous value on Day 3. Connor Lew was widely viewed as one of the best centers in the draft before suffering a season-ending ACL injury at Auburn, making him an excellent fourth-round value selection. Brian Parker II and Jack Endries also project as potential steals late in the draft. Overall, Cincinnati successfully addressed several weaknesses while adding quality depth throughout the roster.
NFL Rookie Minicamp Results
The Bengals held rookie minicamp at Paycor Stadium from May 8-9 and received full participation from their entire draft class. While the event focused primarily on teaching and player development, several rookies quickly stood out.
Tacario Davis emerged as one of the biggest stars of minicamp. Coaches and media members consistently praised his 6-foot-4 frame and elite arm length, which allowed him to disrupt passing lanes throughout defensive drills. Cincinnati believes Davis has the physical traits necessary to become a major contributor in the secondary.
Cashius Howell also impressed during his first NFL practices. The former Texas A&M standout flashed athleticism off the edge while showing the versatility to occasionally drop into coverage. Wide receiver Colbie Young generated positive reviews as well, using his size and catch radius to stand out during passing drills. Meanwhile, seventh-round defensive tackle Landon Robinson earned praise for his strength and physicality as he competes for a rotational role along the defensive front.
Cincinnati Bengals Updated 2026 Win Total Projection
The Bengals enter the 2026 season with a projected win total of 9.5 games. Unlike many teams sitting at that number, sportsbooks strongly favor the Over, reflecting confidence in Cincinnati’s ability to rebound from last year’s 6-11 record.
Several factors support those expectations. Despite playing the Baltimore Ravens twice, the Bengals are projected to face the third-easiest schedule in the NFL based on opponent win totals. Cincinnati also aggressively upgraded its defense during both free agency and the draft, adding proven veterans and young talent to address one of the league’s biggest weaknesses from 2025.
The biggest variable remains Joe Burrow’s health. When healthy, Burrow has consistently proven capable of leading one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses. If he remains available for a full season, many analysts believe Cincinnati can reach double-digit wins and challenge Baltimore for the AFC North crown. With improved depth and a favorable schedule, the Bengals appear positioned for a significant bounce-back campaign.
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