Defense Predicted to ‘Make or Break’ Bengals 2025 Season in Best- and Worst-Case Scenarios originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Cincinnati Bengals had a dreadful defense in 2024.
That poor unit kept them out of the postseason and nullified a potential MVP season for quarterback Joe Burrow and an offense that glittered like gold.
Have the Bengals done enough to improve that in 2025?
That remains to be seen, but it’s not looking good. Especially if veteran EDGE Trey Hendrickson is playing for someone else and first-round draft pick Shemar Stewart isn’t on the field.
Pro Football & Sports Network predicted each team’s best- and worst-case scenarios for the upcoming campaign, and in both situations, the Bengals’ season rides on the defense.
12-5
“The Cincinnati Bengals’ defense looms large when figuring out their best-case scenario in 2025. New defensive coordinator Al Golden should upgrade the coaching staff, but the unit on paper has too many holes,” PFSN wrote. “The reason the Bengals’ ceiling is as high as 12-5 stems from their offense. Joe Burrow is one of the few elite quarterbacks out there, and he has a loaded offense to work with. Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins form one of the best receiver tandems in the NFL, Mike Gesicki is a good tight end, and Chase Brown is a rising star at running back.
“Cincinnati’s explosive offense could offset their defense and get them back on track.”
7-10
“Cincinnati Bengals fans breathed a huge sigh of relief this offseason, knowing they’ve locked down Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins for the future. That group should keep them competitive, but it might not be enough to make them a contender again,” PFSN wrote. “With one of the worst defenses in the NFL last year, the Bengals relied on elite play on offense to stay competitive in some games.
“They didn’t make any major signings in free agency to improve their defense, and it could get worse if they trade Trey Hendrickson. The defense will make or break their 2025 season.”
Related: Analyst Questions Trey Hendrickson’s Future with Bengals
Related: Bengals’ Third-Round Draft Pick Set to ‘Surprise’ Next Season
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 18, 2025, where it first appeared.