Money does not solve everything. In the case of Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, he already has enough money in the bank. After signing a record-breaking $275 million extension, it has not necessarily led to many winning seasons.
In 2025, the Cincinnati Bengals finished with a 6-11 record and missed the postseason. Although Burrow missed time due to injury, he completed 66.8% of his passes for 1,809 yards, 17 touchdowns, and five interceptions.
Simply put, the Bengals must spend well in 2026 to keep Burrow satisfied. They have the talent, but a few things are needed for them to be legitimate Super Bowl contenders.
The Wall of Defense
Key defensive pieces like Trey Hendrickson and Joseph Ossai are facing uncertain futures or free agency in 2026. With playmakers all over the offensive side of the football, the Bengals have the tenth overall pick and $300 million in cap space to bulk up on a defensive unit that has been horrid to watch. The interior pass rush is also going to need a ton of work.
Burrow and the Offensive Line
Burrow has to be pleased with the progress of the offensive line and the protection he has received. The Bengals were in the top 10 in many of their rankings on blocking and protecting the quarterback. The group surrendered just 36 sacks and that was with Burrow having the second-most drop-backs in the league.
Players like guard Dalton Risner and tackle Amarius Mims have made great progress and are key cornerstones in helping Burrow stay upright and off the turf.
All-In Aggressiveness
Cincinnati Bengals
Sep 14, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase (1) celebrates his touchdown with wide receiver Tee Higgins (5) during the first quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
The Bengals have a great offense and have weapons for Burrow. Pro Bowl receiver Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins are huge targets that can rip apart any defensive secondary. Running back Chase Brown ran for over 1,000 yards in 2025, while becoming a reliable option out of the backfield.
Despite this, they are looking to take another step forward. If they can find ways to limit their defense from causing trouble, this team can be a threat in the AFC.
If Burrow is going to be a ‘Bengal for life’, the organization would do him the favor and spend heavily to get their franchise back to the Super Bowl.
Main Image: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images