The Cincinnati Bengals had a tough season in 2024, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Despite showing some promise and flashes of brilliance, the unit struggled to consistently perform at a high level, leading to disappointing results for the team. As we look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, it is clear that the Bengals need to focus on upgrading their defense in order to compete at a higher level in the upcoming season.
One of the biggest issues the Bengals faced on defense in 2024 was their lack of depth. Injuries and inconsistent play from key players left the team scrambling to fill gaps and make adjustments throughout the season. This led to a lack of cohesion and chemistry on the field, making it difficult for the defense to make crucial stops and keep the team in games.
In addition to depth, the Bengals also struggled with a lack of playmakers on defense. While they had a few standout performers, there was a noticeable absence of game-changing plays and big moments from the unit as a whole. This made it difficult for the team to swing the momentum in their favor and put pressure on opposing offenses.
One area where the Bengals particularly struggled was in their pass defense. The team gave up too many big plays and struggled to consistently pressure the quarterback, resulting in a low number of sacks and turnovers. With the NFL becoming increasingly pass-oriented, it is crucial for teams to have a strong pass defense in order to be successful.
Another issue that plagued the Bengals’ defense was their run defense. The team gave up too many yards on the ground and struggled to stop the run in crucial situations. This not only put pressure on the defense but also on the offense, as they were often playing from behind and unable to establish a balanced attack.
Looking forward to the 2025 NFL Draft, the Bengals have a great opportunity to address these issues and upgrade their defense. With the right picks and strategic moves, the team can add depth, playmakers, and solidify their defense for the upcoming season.
One position that the Bengals should focus on in the draft is the defensive line. Adding a strong pass rusher and run-stopper will not only improve the team’s overall defense but also take some pressure off the secondary. With the depth and talent in this year’s draft class, the Bengals have a real opportunity to find impact players that can make an immediate difference on the field.
In addition to the defensive line, the Bengals should also look to add depth and playmaking ability at the linebacker position. This will not only improve their run defense but also bolster their pass coverage and give the team more versatility on defense. With the right picks, the Bengals can find linebackers who can make an immediate impact and solidify the unit for years to come.
Furthermore, the Bengals should also look to add talent and depth in the secondary. This will not only help improve their pass defense but also give the team more options in terms of coverages and schemes. With the right picks, the Bengals can find skilled defensive backs who can make an immediate impact and help turn the tide in close games.
It is also important for the Bengals to look for players with strong leadership and work ethic. This will not only help improve the team’s overall culture but also provide much-needed guidance and stability on the defensive side of the ball. With the right mix of talent and leadership, the Bengals can build a strong and cohesive defense that can carry the team to success in the upcoming season.
In conclusion, the Cincinnati Bengals had their fair share of struggles on defense in 2024 and it is evident that they need to make some changes in order to perform at a higher level in the upcoming season. With the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, the team has a great opportunity to address their issues and upgrade their defense for the better. By focusing on key positions and finding players with the right mix of talent, leadership, and work ethic, the Bengals can build a strong and competitive defense that will help propel the team towards success in 2025 and beyond.
