Joe Burrow, Jets
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Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow trying to make a play during an NFL game against the New York Jets.
The Cincinnati Bengals have a very important NFL draft coming soon. Bleacher Report has put together a list of ‘surprising needs’ for each NFL team.
For the Cincinnati Bengals, a team need that they could use is at the tight end position. The Cincinnati Bengals defense has been the talk of the town since the offseason started. With Cincy likely using most of their picks on defense, another need could possibly be another weapon for Joe Burrow.
“The Bengals could spend all eight of their picks on defense and the fanbase wouldn’t complain. There’s no denying the group needs a continued infusion of talent.” Alex Ballentine wrote in the Bleacher Report article. “What we wouldn’t expect is that Joe Burrow needs another weapon, but there’s still room for a promising young tight end on the roster.”
Who Could the Bengals Target at Tight End?
Bleacher Report identified three potential targets the Bengals could go after:
Michael Trigg, Baylor
Jack Endries, Texas
Eli Raridon, Notre Dame
“Michael Trigg was a 4-star recruit, who entered his redshirt-senior season having played for USC, Ole Miss, and Baylor. After dealing with injuries at Ole Miss, Trigg transferred to Baylor and looked to improve upon his 2024 campaign, where he totaled 30 receptions for 395 yards and three touchdowns.” Daniel Harms wrote in a Bleacher Report article. “Michael Trigg is a matchup problem for defenses. The hybrid target already displays the nuance and route detail to immediately contribute to an NFL offense.”
Jack Endries caught 33 passes, recorded 346 yards and three touchdowns at the University of Texas.
“Jack Endries is a former 3-star recruit before committing to play for the California Bears. After two seasons, he entered the transfer portal as a 4-star and committed to Texas for his junior season. Steve Sarkisian-led programs have produced a ton of NFL prospects, and Endries is next in line.” Harms wrote.
Eli Raridon caught 32 passes and recorded 482 yards at the University of Notre Dame.
“Eli Raridon has legitimate three-down ability, with a well-rounded game that will help offenses in the run game and add explosives through the air. He’s got the size and speed to be a mismatch against most defenders down the field, and he’s improving his functional strength to create movement on them.” Harms wrote.
A Solid Tight End Would Add to Loaded Cincy Offense
If the Cincinnati Bengals can get their hands on one of these tight ends, the acquisition would just be an added weapon for Joe Burrow. Ja’Maar Chase, Tee Higgins, and Chase Brown all highlight a loaded Cincinnati Bengals offense.
During the 2024 season, the Bengals had the first-ranked passing offense in the NFL off of an impressive season from Joe Burrow. In 2025, they ranked 6th with Joe Burrow being out for the vast majority of the season.
The problem for the Bengals has been on the defensive side of the ball ranking 31st in total defense in the 2025 season. They ranked 26th in passing defense and 32nd in rushing defense which is dead last.
Nonetheless, the Bengals will look to improve their team by any means necessary. The priority will be to improve their defense and protect Joe Burrow.