The Cincinnati Bengals are banking on a youth movement in their defensive line, focusing on the potential of rookies Kris Jenkins Jr. and McKinnley Jackson. Despite injuries hampering their debut seasons, head coach Zac Taylor remains optimistic about their future contributions.

Drafted to fill the void left by DJ Reader, Jenkins and Jackson were expected to make significant impacts. However, both players faced challenges last year due to injuries. Jenkins struggled with a hand injury, while Jackson had to recover from a knee issue that kept him out for the first four games. The coaching staff is hopeful that under new defensive coordinator Al Golden, these young linemen can rise to meet the expectations placed upon them and solidify their roles in 2025.

The Cincinnati Bengals are currently focusing on fortifying their defensive line in the upcoming NFL Draft, particularly after the exit of DJ Reader. As mock drafts suggest a variety of strategies, including the possibility of trading up, many analysts highlight Michigan's Kenneth Grant as a top prospect to fill Reader's void. Grant's ability to dominate the interior aligns well with the Bengals’ needs, especially with offensive investments made in previous drafts. The team has tried to mitigate Reader's absence with a rotational approach, but it hasn't been consistently effective.

The coaching staff remains hopeful that young players Kris Jenkins Jr. and McKinnley Jackson can rise to the occasion, with B.J. Hill returning to provide experience. However, adding a talent like Grant could enhance the defense significantly, allowing for better pressure on opposing quarterbacks while maintaining focus on edges like Trey Hendrickson. Overall, this draft season represents a crucial moment for the Bengals as they seek to recover from past decisions and reinforce a crucial part of their roster.

The Las Vegas Raiders provided updates on player injuries leading up to their Week 9 game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Rookie Brock Bowers was added to the report but participated fully in practice, while fellow tight end Harrison Bryant remained limited due to an elbow issue.

Maxx Crosby and Jack Jones showed positive recovery signs, both participating fully. However, center Andre James and linebacker Robert Spillane did not practice, indicating ongoing concerns with their injuries.

On the Bengals' side, Orlando Brown Jr. and Tee Higgins missed practice, while quarterback Joe Burrow and others returned as full participants, suggesting a mixed bag of health as both teams prepare for their matchup.