The NFL offseason has delivered big draft moments, shocking free-agent signings, and blockbuster trades. Teams now prepare for June minicamps, with training camps soon to follow.
The Cincinnati Bengals have made several moves to address their biggest weakness: defense. Ahead of the draft, they traded the 10th overall pick to the New York Giants for All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence.
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Last season and into this offseason, speculation swirled that Joe Burrow felt disappointed with the Bengals’ front office. This week, however, he made it clear that he approves of the team’s recent acquisitions. The Queen City’s franchise quarterback sounded genuinely pleased.
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“I’m really excited about the moves we made this offseason,” Burrow said. “We need to get better, so it was exciting to see the initiative from everybody in the organization and recognize that we’re in an exciting stage.”
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Dec 28, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) throws during the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
Burrow also praised the addition of Lawrence and the signing of safety Bryan Cook.
“Finding guys like Dexter [Lawrence] and Bryan Cook to really solidify that defense allows the young guys to rise up,” he said.
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The team has a clear goal: return to the Super Bowl and capture the Lombardi Trophy this time.
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It has been only four years since the Bengals appeared in Super Bowl LVI, but they have also missed the playoffs in each of the past three seasons since 2022.
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) rolls out to hand off in the first quarter of the NFL Week 18 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns at Paycor Stadium in Downtown Cincinnati on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026.
The Bengals possess the offensive firepower to compete with any team in the league. However, defensive struggles and Burrow’s health have held them back.
Over the past three seasons, Burrow has missed 16 games due to injuries. A wrist injury ended his 2023 season, and a foot injury sidelined him for half of 2025.
Despite those setbacks, no one is counting out Burrow and the Bengals. Even a veteran free-agent wide receiver recently expressed a desire to join the team.
If Burrow had any doubts about the organization, this offseason may have restored his faith in the front office. Now the question remains: Can he lead the Bengals back to the Super Bowl soon?