The Cincinnati Bengals made some massive changes to the defensive side of the ball this offseason, bringing in a lot of veterans to improve one of the worst defenses in the NFL.
Dexter Lawrence II was a huge trade acquisition, while Bryan Cook, Jonathan Allen, and Boye Mafe were key free-agent signings. Add in edge rusher Cashius Howell in Round 2 of the NFL Draft, and the Bengals made some huge moves this offseason.
But one of the key defenders for 2026 is first-round edge rusher Myles Murphy. Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic highlighted Murphy as someone with the most at stake this year, due to a potential $20 million projected contract extension if he has a good 2026.
Myles Murphy projected to have $20M contract at stake in 2026
"Playing at that same level - if not better with Lawrence drawing doubles next to him - would have him hitting the free-agent market with a projected $20 million-plus price tag," Dehner writes. "If Murphy regresses, however, he likely lands with a prove-it deal."
There is a massive difference in contract at stake for the 2023 first-rounder this upcoming season. If he plays well, he could be looking at a major $20 million-plus payday.
But, a down season from Murphy, and he likely would have to accept just a one-year contract from a team in free agency to try and prove he's deserving of more money.
He's only 24 years old, and he closed out the 2025 regular season strong. From November on, Murphy had four total sacks, 37 tackles (20 solo), five tackles for loss, and eight quarterback hits with 12 total pressures.
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It wasn't anything otherworldly, but it was the start of a breakout the Bengals have been waiting to see from their 28th overall selection.
But it's now or never for Murphy in Cincinnati, as this 2026 season will be the last one on his rookie deal after they declined his fifth-year option.
If he can have a breakout 2026 season for the Bengals defensive line, which might be a bit more likely playing alongside Lawrence, Allen, Howell, Mafe, and Shemar Stewart, then Murphy could be on the cusp of earning a $20-million plus deal in free agency.
Murphy was the player Dehner noted was the one with the most on the line in 2026 for the Bengals, as a good season for the 2023 first-rounder could be the difference in millions of dollars on a new deal once he hits free agency during the 2027 offseason.
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