The Cincinnati Bengals have undergone significant changes to their 53-man roster following the 2025 offseason, with a focus on bolstering their defense and integrating new talent from recent drafts and free agency. Quarterback Joe Burrow remains a staple, supported by Jake Browning, while the running back group features Chase Brown, Samaje Perine, and Zack Moss. The receiving corps boasts stars like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, complemented by promising newcomers like Jermaine Burton and Andrei Iosivas.

The defense has seen notable shifts as Germaine Pratt and Sam Hubbard depart, paving the way for rookies and younger players to step up. The defensive line and secondary are particularly highlighted, with T.J. Slaton and B.J. Hill leading a revamped unit. Linebacker Logan Wilson continues to anchor the defense alongside newcomers, aiming to enhance the team's overall performance as they prepare for the upcoming season.

The Cincinnati Bengals face a challenging 2025 season following significant defensive losses, including key players like Sam Hubbard and Germaine Pratt. With a shift towards a youth movement under new defensive coordinator Al Golden, former NFL player Chris Canty expressed skepticism about the team's ability to improve defensively. He highlighted that these departures were strategic, aimed at evolving the squad into a more agile unit. The concern lies in the potential regression as younger players adapt to the new system while trying to support star quarterback Joe Burrow.

Despite these challenges, the Bengals have made calculated moves, including signing T.J. Slaton and relying on second-year players to fill gaps. The transition could either be a misstep or a calculated risk that pays off in the future, depending on how well the team meshes under Golden's leadership. With Burrow's future on the line, Cincinnati's ability to adapt and innovate defensively will be pivotal for their success.

The Cincinnati Bengals face a leadership transition as they prepare for the 2025 season, with several key players departing, including Sam Hubbard, Germaine Pratt, and Vonn Bell. In the wake of this change, the team is looking for new captains to step up and guide the roster.

One of the leading candidates for a captaincy role is defensive lineman B.J. Hill, who is returning to the team. Hill's approach reflects the expectations for a captain, as he emphasizes the importance of leadership and readiness as the team prepares for next season.

The Cincinnati Bengals are banking on Shemar Stewart's impressive run-defense capabilities to bolster their defensive line after the retirement of veteran Sam Hubbard. Stewart, selected in the first round, boasts an exceptional 88.2 run-defense grade from his college days, a statistic that seems to have significantly influenced the Bengals' decision to draft him. In a league increasingly prioritizing defensive versatility, Stewart's athleticism and potential to contribute against the run were key considerations in this choice.

As the Bengals aim to strengthen their defense for the upcoming season, Stewart's ability to set the edge and disrupt opposing running games could prove crucial. With Hubbard no longer in the mix, the Bengals will look to Stewart to fill that void and enhance their defensive efficacy. This strategic move highlights the Bengals' commitment to maintaining a strong defensive front, which is essential for competing in the highly competitive AFC North.