As the Bengals head into the 2026 offseason, the future of elite edge rusher Trey Hendrickson in Cincinnati remains one of the organization’s most intriguing and uncertain storylines. Hendrickson, a four-time Pro Bowler and recent NFL sack leader, has been a disruptive force since joining the Bengals and was among the league’s most valuable free agents at the end of the 2025 season.

The central barrier to a long-term return has been contract negotiations. After a contentious holdout and talks that dragged through the 2025 offseason, the Bengals and Hendrickson eventually agreed to a one-year, $30 million deal that lets him hit unrestricted free agency in 2026. That new contract did not include a no-tag clause, giving Cincinnati the option to tender him with the franchise tag next spring — albeit at a high cost.

Most recently, ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler reported that the relationship between Hendrickson and the Bengals “has likely deteriorated beyond repair,” largely because of the bitter contract negotiations the past year. Fowler suggests that while the Bengals could use the franchise tag to retain him, Hendrickson appears poised to explore opportunities elsewhere in a strong market for pass rushers. A long-term return to Cincinnati now seems unlikely, especially given Hendrickson’s desire for security and the team’s investment in younger edge talent.

Realistically, then, the possibility of Hendrickson returning to the Bengals hinges on one of three outcomes:

Cincinnati uses the franchise tag and he plays another year while negotiating long-term.

Hendrickson and the team agree on a new extension (less likely per the latest intel).

He tests free agency and signs elsewhere.

At this point, Fowler’s update points toward #3 as the most probable scenario — meaning a Hendrickson return to Cincinnati isn’t off the table, but it’s far from likely.

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#Bengals #NFL #TheStoneShieldsShow

Cincinnati Bengals owner Mike Brown announced that head coach Zac Taylor and director of player personnel Duke Tobin will both return, signaling continuity and confidence in the franchise’s leadership as it looks toward the future. The decision reinforces the organization’s belief in the vision that has guided the Bengals through recent seasons and into consistent contention in the AFC.

Brown praised Taylor for his steady leadership and ability to connect with players, noting that stability at head coach remains a priority for the organization. Since taking over, Taylor has helped modernize the team’s culture, emphasizing accountability, collaboration, and resilience. Under his guidance, the Bengals have developed into a perennial playoff contender, highlighted by deep postseason runs and a reputation as one of the conference’s most competitive teams.

Duke Tobin’s return was framed as equally important. Brown emphasized Tobin’s role in building and maintaining the roster through the draft, free agency, and contract negotiations. Tobin has been instrumental in assembling a core of star talent while balancing long-term financial flexibility, a strategy that has allowed Cincinnati to compete with larger-market franchises. His eye for talent and willingness to make bold moves have earned respect across the league.

Brown acknowledged that expectations remain high in Cincinnati and that recent seasons have shown both the promise of the roster and the challenges that come with sustained success. By retaining both Taylor and Tobin, the Bengals are opting for continuity rather than sweeping change, believing that their current leadership group is best positioned to address shortcomings and push the team to the next level.

The announcement sends a clear message to players, fans, and the rest of the NFL: the Bengals trust their plan. With Taylor leading on the sidelines and Tobin shaping the roster, Cincinnati aims to remain a fixture in the AFC playoff picture and continue its pursuit of a championship.

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#Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

Yesterday, in what was essentially a meaningless Week 18 matchup for both clubs, the Cincinnati Bengals fell to the Cleveland Browns 20–18 at Paycor Stadium to close out a disappointing 2025 campaign.

Both teams entered the game already eliminated from playoff contention, but Cincinnati still hoped to end on a high note against an AFC North rival. Early on, Cincinnati struggled to put together consistent offense and committed costly errors, including missing two extra-point attempts — mistakes that would loom large in the final score. Meanwhile, Cleveland’s defense made a huge early impact, even scoring on a 97-yard interception return to set the tone.

The defining moment of the game came in the fourth quarter, when Browns defensive end **Myles Garrett not only pressured Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow but set the NFL’s single-season sack record with his 23rd sack. The celebration around that milestone was controversial — Bengals head coach **Zac Taylor angrily protested after officials paused play to honor Garrett’s achievement in a critical late-game moment.

Cincinnati mounted a late comeback, with Joe Burrow leading a quick scoring drive that gave the Bengals an 18–17 lead with under two minutes left. But Cleveland responded, and Shedeur Sanders engineered a clutch drive that set up Andre Szmyt’s 49-yard field goal as time expired to win it for the Browns.

For the Bengals, this loss capped a 6–11 season filled with inconsistency, turnovers, and missed opportunities. With Sunday’s defeat now in the books, Cincinnati will turn its focus to the offseason and making changes to get back into playoff contention in 2026.

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#Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator Al Golden publicly defended safety Geno Stone ahead of the Week 18 game, offering a relatively positive evaluation of the veteran despite widespread criticism of Stone’s play this season. Golden highlighted Stone’s leadership and communication as key factors in the defense’s improved performance over the past eight games, suggesting that Stone has played an important role in helping the unit find its footing of late. Golden credited him with getting the secondary aligned properly and being a stabilizing voice on the field.

Golden explicitly pointed to Stone’s contributions to recent defensive success, saying that much of the late-season improvement can be traced back to the safety’s steady presence. He acknowledged that both he and Stone, along with teammate Jordan Battle, would like to have “one play back here, one play back there,” but maintained that Stone has improved from the previous year and continues to develop. Golden emphasized a positive outlook on Stone’s future, stating he sees a “path forward” for Stone to keep improving with continued coaching.

It’s notable that while Golden praised Stone’s intangibles and leadership, he stopped short of committing to wanting Stone back in 2026, deflecting future-oriented questions by focusing solely on the final game of the season. Stone is set to become an unrestricted free agent, and Golden didn’t directly address plans for next year.

Golden’s comments have drawn mixed reactions, with many fans seeing his praise as coach-speak protecting a struggling player, while others interpret it as a genuine belief in Stone’s value beyond traditional statistical performance.

In short, Golden is publicly backing Geno Stone as a leader and communicator with room to grow, even as broader analysis and fan sentiment remain skeptical.

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#Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

Zac Taylor’s decision to play his starters, including quarterback Joe Burrow, in the final game of the season against the Cleveland Browns was a choice that sparked debate among fans and analysts. At the surface level, resting key players in a meaningless or low-stakes finale can seem like the safer option, especially when considering injury risk. However, Taylor’s approach reflected a broader philosophy about competitiveness, culture, and preparation.

One major factor behind the decision was momentum. Ending the season on a strong note can matter, particularly for a team trying to reinforce confidence and consistency. By playing Burrow and other starters, Taylor signaled that every game counts, regardless of playoff implications. This mindset helps establish a culture where effort and accountability do not fluctuate based on circumstance. For a franchise that has worked to shed years of inconsistency, maintaining that standard is significant.

There was also a developmental and rhythm-based argument. Burrow, coming off a demanding season, benefits from staying in sync with his receivers and offensive line. Game reps cannot be fully replicated in practice, and extended time off before the postseason—or the offseason—can disrupt timing. Taylor likely believed that keeping the offense sharp outweighed the controlled risk of limited snaps.

Critics, however, pointed to the obvious downside: injury. The Browns, a divisional rival, play a physical brand of football, and exposing franchise players in a final-week matchup always carries danger. For some, the potential long-term cost to Burrow’s health was not worth the short-term benefits.

Ultimately, Taylor’s decision highlighted his trust in his players and his commitment to a competitive identity. While reasonable minds can disagree on the risk-reward balance, the choice aligned with a coaching philosophy that prioritizes preparation, toughness, and treating every game as meaningful.

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#Bengals #Reds #OffTheBench

In a convincing home performance at Paycor Stadium, the **Cincinnati Bengals cruised to a 37-14 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, never trailing and dominating across all three phases of the game.

Quarterback Joe Burrow was the catalyst for Cincinnati’s offense, throwing for 305 yards and two touchdown passes to star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase. Burrow’s efficient performance tied the franchise record for most 300-yard passing games (28), previously held by Andy Dalton.

Chase was a constant threat, hauling in seven catches for 60 yards and both of his scores. With this outing, he became the first player in NFL history to record at least 80 receptions, 1,000 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns in each of his first five seasons, a remarkable milestone reflecting his elite consistency.

The Bengals also got a strong ground game from Chase Brown, who finished with 101 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns, helping Cincinnati take control early and keep the Cardinals on their heels.

Cincinnati’s offense was so dominant that Burrow came out in the fourth quarter, with backup Joe Flacco taking over as the victory was well in hand. The Bengals amassed over 400 yards of total offense, showcasing balance and explosive playmaking. 

Despite the loss, the Cardinals had a highlight when tight end Trey McBride set the NFL single-season reception record for a tight end with 119 catches, giving Arizona a rare positive takeaway.

Cincinnati improves to 6-10 on the season with the win, while Arizona falls to 3-13, extending a tough campaign.

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#Bengals #Reds #OffTheBench

The Cincinnati Bengals (5-10) host the Arizona Cardinals (3-12) this Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati for a 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff on FOX. Both teams are eliminated from playoff contention in disappointing 2025 seasons, turning this late-season matchup into a battle for pride, momentum heading into the offseason, and potentially better draft positioning.

The Bengals enter on a high note after exploding for 45 points in a dominant Week 16 win over the Miami Dolphins. Joe Burrow looked sharp in his return from injury, throwing for over 300 yards with multiple touchdowns, while Ja'Marr Chase and the offense clicked efficiently. Chase Brown added a strong rushing performance, and the unit showed flashes of the explosiveness that has defined Cincinnati in recent years. However, the defense remains a major concern, ranking near the bottom of the league in points allowed (30.5 per game) and struggling against the pass and tight ends.

Arizona, meanwhile, is mired in a seven-game losing streak, most recently falling 26-19 to the Atlanta Falcons. With Kyler Murray sidelined for the season due to injury, Jacoby Brissett has been under center, leading an inconsistent offense that relies heavily on tight end Trey McBride (over 1,000 yards and double-digit touchdowns). The Cardinals' run game has been decimated by injuries to backs like James Conner and Trey Benson, leaving Michael Carter as the primary option. Defensively, Arizona has been porous, allowing 30+ points in several recent games, though they can keep things close against vulnerable units. Bengals are favored by about 7 points, with a high over/under around 53.5, reflecting expectations of a potential shootout given both teams' defensive woes and offensive talent. Burrow's presence gives Cincinnati a clear edge at quarterback, and home-field advantage in cold December weather could trouble the dome-accustomed Cardinals.

Key storylines include Burrow continuing to build momentum post-injury, McBride's dominance against a Bengals defense weak vs. tight ends, and whether Arizona can snap their skid against a team with more natural talent. Experts largely side with Cincinnati, but the Cardinals' ability to move the ball through the air could keep it competitive.

In a "meaningless" game for standings, look for fireworks and individual performances to shine. Bengals are poised to win, likely covering in a high-scoring affair.

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#Bengals #Reds #OffTheBench

The Cincinnati Reds could be one bold move away from becoming serious contenders, and a potential trade for Luis Robert Jr. might be exactly what they need. In this video, we break down the idea of the Reds trading for Luis Robert, what it would cost, and how he could instantly change the outlook of Cincinnati’s lineup.

Luis Robert is one of the most dynamic players in Major League Baseball, combining elite power, speed, and Gold Glove–caliber defense in center field. With the Chicago White Sox possibly entering a retooling phase, trade rumors are heating up around Robert, and the Cincinnati Reds are a team that makes a lot of sense as a potential landing spot. But would the Reds be willing to part with top prospects or young MLB talent to make this deal happen?

We’ll analyze how Luis Robert would fit into the Reds’ roster, how he complements stars like Elly De La Cruz and Matt McLain, and whether Cincinnati’s farm system gives them enough ammunition to pull off a blockbuster trade. We’ll also discuss contract details, injury concerns, and the overall risk vs. reward of making such a high-profile move.

If the Reds are serious about competing in the NL Central and making a deep playoff run, trading for a superstar like Luis Robert could be a franchise-altering decision. Is this the right time for Cincinnati to go all-in, or should they stay patient with their young core?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments: Should the Cincinnati Reds trade for Luis Robert? What would you give up to make the deal happen?

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more Reds news, MLB trade rumors, and in-depth baseball analysis.

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#Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

In a thrilling matchup, the Cincinnati Bengals delivered an explosive performance, defeating the Miami Dolphins 45-21. The Bengals showcased their offensive firepower, with standout plays and key contributions from both Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase. Despite a strong first-half effort from Miami, the Dolphins struggled to keep pace as the Bengals' offense took control after halftime.

The game saw Quinn Ewers stepping in for a benched Tua Tagovailoa, and though Ewers showed flashes of potential, the Dolphins’ offense couldn’t find enough rhythm to match the Bengals’ high-powered attack. Joe Burrow was in top form, leading the Bengals with precision throws and timely decisions. Meanwhile, Ja'Marr Chase was dominant, consistently making big catches and proving why he’s one of the league’s top receivers.

On the defensive side, the Bengals did a great job of applying pressure and forcing mistakes, including key sacks and turnovers. Miami’s struggles to protect the quarterback, coupled with their inability to adjust to Cincinnati’s defensive schemes, kept the game out of reach. The Dolphins’ inability to capitalize on early opportunities ultimately led to their downfall.

This 45-21 win marks another strong statement for the Bengals as they continue to build momentum for the season. Watch the full game highlights and analysis to relive the key moments that led to this impressive victory!

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#Bengals #NFL #OffTheBench

The Cincinnati Bengals (4-10) close out their road slate Sunday in Miami against the Dolphins (6-8) in a game devoid of playoff implications for Cincy but rich with opportunity. After being officially eliminated from postseason contention, Zac Taylor’s club has a chance to build momentum into 2026 and reestablish competitive identity over the final three weeks.

Offensively, Joe Burrow and his talented receiving corps will look to bounce back from a tough shutout loss to Baltimore, where Burrow was held to 225 yards with two interceptions and Ja’Marr Chase still showed elite playmaking ability. Getting the offense untracked is priority one, and fresh legs in the passing game — particularly from Chase and whoever emerges as a No. 2 option — could exploit a Dolphins secondary missing playmakers at times.

Cincinnati’s defense, however, enters with concerns. The interior defensive line has taken hits with B.J. Hill and Kris Jenkins Jr. trending toward inactivity, and Joseph Ossai’s ankle issues further weaken pass-rush depth. That could challenge a Miami attack transitioning to rookie Quinn Ewers under center after benching Tua Tagovailoa amid a season leading the league in interceptions.

From a scheme standpoint, the Bengals can attack a Dolphins defense that has been inconsistent against the run and susceptible in the secondary — offering a blueprint for Cincinnati to sustain drives and flip field position. Turnovers and discipline will be key; forcing mistakes from an inexperienced Miami QB could tilt the game.

Ultimately, while the Bengals aren’t fighting for a playoff spot, Sunday serves as a referendum on effort, growth, and offseason trajectory. A strong road performance — especially in a physical division battle — can boost confidence and spotlight emerging core pieces heading into 2026.

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#Bengals #NFL #TheStoneShieldsShow