On today's show, we break down all 7 selections the Cincinnati Bengals made in the 2026 NFL Draft: Cashius Howell, Tacario Davis, Connor Lew, Colbie Young, Brian Parker II, Jack Endries and Landon Robinson.

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The Cincinnati Bengals approached the 2026 NFL Draft with an unconventional strategy, opting to trade away their first-round pick (No. 10 overall) to acquire standout defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, effectively bringing in a proven veteran instead of a rookie. Without a Round 1 selection, Cincinnati focused on addressing key needs with its Day 2 picks. In the second round, they selected defensive end Cashius Howell, a productive pass rusher coming off an 11.5-sack season, signaling an emphasis on improving the pass rush. In the third round, they added cornerback Tacario Davis, a tall and physical defender who brings length and upside to the secondary.

On Day 3, the Bengals were active in maneuvering their draft capital, including a trade with the New York Jets to move into the fourth round, where they selected center Connor Lew and wide receiver Colbie Young. Lew, a former top prospect, offers long-term potential along the interior offensive line despite recovering from an ACL injury, while Young provides size and red-zone ability at receiver, albeit with some risk factors. In the sixth round, Cincinnati added another center, Brian Parker II, reinforcing depth and competition at the position. The Bengals closed out their draft in the seventh round by selecting tight end Jack Endries and defensive tackle Landon Robinson, both developmental prospects with intriguing upside.

Overall, the Bengals’ 2026 draft class emphasized building depth rather than securing top-end rookie talent. By trading for Lawrence, they prioritized immediate impact on the defensive line, while their draft selections focused on reinforcing the trenches, adding secondary help, and taking calculated risks on high-upside players later in the draft.

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On today's show, we discuss whether there is a chance Cincinnati could trade back into Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft and a couple of players they may do that for. Also, is Sonny Styles a lock top 5 pick? Could Carnell Tate slide? Plus, Brandon Williamson questions after Reds loss to Rays.

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The idea of the Cincinnati Bengals trading back into Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft isn’t just fan fiction—it’s a legitimately plausible scenario, but one that hinges on how aggressive the front office wants to be after already reshaping its draft capital.

First, the context matters. Cincinnati no longer holds a first-round pick after sending No. 10 overall to the New York Giants in exchange for defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II. That move signals a “win-now” mindset: they’ve already acquired a proven star rather than waiting on a rookie. As a result, their current draft capital starts at pick No. 41 in Round 2.

That’s where the possibility of a trade back into Round 1 comes in. Teams picking late in the first round often look to move down for more selections, and Cincinnati has the kind of mid-round ammo (plus future picks) to make a deal work. League insiders have even suggested the Bengals “could be more aggressive moving around the board this weekend,” especially after the Lawrence trade set the tone.

There’s also precedent in this specific draft environment. Reports indicate this year’s first round could be unusually trade-heavy due to a flatter talent pool—meaning the gap between late first- and early second-round prospects isn’t huge. That dynamic makes it easier for a team like Cincinnati to justify packaging picks (for example, No. 41 plus additional assets) to jump into the 20s.

However, there are real obstacles. Historically, Cincinnati has been conservative with first-round trades, rarely moving up aggressively. More importantly, they already spent premium capital on Lawrence, so doubling down with another costly move could thin out depth—something this roster still needs, particularly on defense and the offensive line.

So the bottom line: it’s possible, even logical under the right circumstances—but not guaranteed. If a specific high-impact defender or offensive lineman slides into the 20–32 range, the Bengals could strike. Otherwise, the smarter play may be staying put and maximizing value on Day 2.

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On today's show, Stone runs through his final Cincinnati Bengals mock draft before they make a critical selection at #41 overall. Plus, the Reds win their 5th straight after a 12-6 win last night over the Rays. Plus, LeBron James and the Lakers take a 2-0 series lead against the Rockets against all odds.

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The Cincinnati Reds continued their hot streak in emphatic fashion last night, defeating the Tampa Bay Rays 12–6 to secure their fifth consecutive win. The victory showcased a balanced offensive explosion and timely pitching, reinforcing the Reds’ growing momentum as they push deeper into the season.

Cincinnati’s lineup came alive early, putting immediate pressure on Tampa Bay’s pitching staff. A multi-run first inning set the tone, with aggressive baserunning and disciplined at-bats forcing mistakes. The Reds consistently found gaps in the defense, stringing together hits rather than relying solely on power. By the middle innings, they had already built a commanding lead that proved difficult for the Rays to overcome.

Several Reds hitters delivered standout performances, combining for a double-digit hit total and driving in runs across multiple innings. The team’s ability to capitalize with runners in scoring position was especially notable, a key factor in turning what could have been a close contest into a comfortable win. Even as the Rays attempted to claw back with a few late runs, Cincinnati responded quickly to maintain control.

On the mound, the Reds’ pitching staff delivered a solid, if not flawless, outing. The starter provided enough stability to build the lead, while the bullpen managed to contain Tampa Bay’s offense despite allowing a handful of runs. Importantly, they avoided the kind of big inning that could have shifted momentum.

With five straight wins, the Reds are showing signs of a team finding its rhythm. Confidence is building in both the clubhouse and on the field, and performances like this highlight their potential when all facets of the game click.

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On today's show, Stone is joined by Joe Goodberry and they preview the Bengals' draft plan after Cincinnati dealt away their 10th overall pick in exchange for Dexter Lawrence. Plus, the Reds take a 1.5 game lead in the NL Central after their 4th straight win, thanks to Sal Stewart & Elly De La Cruz.

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With the Cincinnati Bengals firmly in win-now mode, their focus on linebacker talent in the draft makes sense—especially when looking at prospects like Anthony Hill Jr., CJ Allen, Jacob Rodriguez, and Jake Golday.

Hill stands out as the most dynamic of the group. He brings sideline-to-sideline speed, strong blitz timing, and the versatility to impact all three downs. For a Bengals defense now built around a dominant interior presence, Hill’s ability to shoot gaps and finish plays behind the line would be especially valuable. He projects as an early contributor with Pro Bowl upside.

Allen offers a slightly different profile—more of a traditional, instinct-driven linebacker. He reads plays quickly, fills lanes decisively, and rarely finds himself out of position. While he may not have Hill’s explosiveness, his reliability and football IQ would make him a strong fit in a defense that needs consistency behind its defensive line.

Rodriguez brings toughness and production. He’s the kind of player who racks up tackles and plays with a relentless motor. While his athletic ceiling may be lower than others, his physicality and effort would appeal to a team looking to solidify depth and special teams while still getting meaningful defensive snaps.

Golday is more of a developmental option but offers intriguing traits. His length and movement skills suggest upside in coverage, which is increasingly important against pass-heavy offenses. With the right coaching, he could grow into a rotational linebacker who contributes in sub-packages.

Taken together, these prospects reflect a clear strategy: surround the defensive front with fast, instinctive linebackers who can capitalize on disruption up front. Whether targeting a high-upside playmaker like Hill or a steady presence like Allen, the Bengals have multiple pathways to upgrade the second level of their defense.

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On today's show, we discuss the Cincinnati Bengals trading for superstar DT Dexter Lawrence in what Stone believes is the most shocking move in franchise history. We react to the news, and Stone explains why he believes this is a steal for the Bengals. Plus, the Reds stay red hot after an improbable sweep of the Minnesota Twins. 

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The Cincinnati Bengals made one of the boldest moves of the 2026 NFL offseason by trading for defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, signaling a clear shift toward “win-now” urgency. In a blockbuster deal with the New York Giants, Cincinnati sent the No. 10 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft in exchange for the three-time Pro Bowler, immediately prioritizing proven talent over rookie potential.

Lawrence arrives in Cincinnati as an established force on the interior defensive line. Over seven seasons with the Giants, he built a reputation as a dominant run-stopper and disruptive pass rusher, totaling over 30 sacks and more than 100 quarterback hits. His presence fills a major need for a Bengals defense that struggled with consistency and physicality in recent seasons. By adding a player of his caliber, the Bengals are aiming to elevate their defensive front to complement quarterback Joe Burrow and a high-powered offense.

The trade also reflects timing and context. Coming off a disappointing 6–11 season and a multi-year playoff drought, Cincinnati appears determined to maximize its competitive window. Rather than gambling on a rookie, the front office chose a known commodity who can make an immediate impact. Analysts have noted that the 2026 draft class lacks elite defensive tackle prospects, which further justified the aggressive move.

However, the deal is not without risk. Lawrence is coming off a down 2025 season, raising questions about consistency and long-term value. Additionally, giving up a top-10 pick limits Cincinnati’s ability to address other roster needs with cheap, young talent. The Bengals are betting that Lawrence’s prior All-Pro form will return and anchor their defense.

Ultimately, this trade underscores a philosophical shift: the Bengals are done waiting. By acquiring Dexter Lawrence and extending him, they’ve made it clear they intend to compete immediately—even if it means sacrificing future assets for present-day impact.

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On today's show, we discuss the Reds' and Giants' benches clearing in what was a disappointing 3-0 loss for the Reds, where they only recorded one hit. Also, Cleveland has officially won the Travis Hunter trade, Mike Trout is turning back the clocks and Reid Maus stops by to preview the Bengals' 10th overall selection on Thursday night.

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Tempers flared in a dramatic moment during yesterday’s game between the Cincinnati Reds and the San Francisco Giants, as both benches cleared following a tense on-field exchange. The incident began after a pitch inside appeared to rattle a Reds hitter, who responded with visible frustration and words directed toward the mound. The Giants pitcher, clearly unhappy with the reaction, fired back verbally, and within seconds, players from both dugouts sprinted onto the field.

While no full-scale brawl broke out, the scene was chaotic. Players crowded around the infield, with coaches and umpires working quickly to keep the situation from escalating. Several individuals had to be held back as emotions ran high, a reflection of the competitive intensity between the two clubs. These kinds of confrontations, while not uncommon in baseball, often stem from unwritten rules about respect, particularly involving inside pitches and perceived retaliatory actions.

Umpires took control after a few heated minutes, separating the teams and issuing warnings to both sides. Though no immediate ejections were handed out at the height of the incident, officials made it clear that further escalation would not be tolerated. The game eventually resumed, but the tension lingered, with every pitch and at-bat carrying a bit more edge.

Moments like this can shift the tone of a game and even a series. They can galvanize a team, creating a rallying point, or serve as a distraction that impacts performance. For fans, bench-clearing incidents add a layer of drama, but for players and coaches, they walk a fine line between passion and discipline. In this case, cooler heads ultimately prevailed before things crossed into something more serious.

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On today's show, we discuss Cincinnati's impressive 8-3 victory against the Giants in a game that featured 2 home runs from Sal Stewart, home runs from Eugenio Suarez and Elly De La Cruz and a career best 6.2 innings from Rhett Lowder. Also, Bengals linebacker targets in the NFL draft, Dane Brugler's 7-round Bengals mock draft, LIV facing imminent closure + Steph Curry play-in greatness.

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Sal Stewart delivered a breakout performance that felt like a true arrival moment for the young Cincinnati Reds star, powering his team to an emphatic 8–3 win over the San Francisco Giants. On a night when Cincinnati’s offense was firing from the first inning, Stewart stood at the center of everything, showcasing the kind of raw power that has quickly made him one of the most exciting rookies in baseball.

The 22-year-old infielder crushed not one but two three-run home runs, accounting for six RBIs on the night. Both blasts came early, immediately putting the Giants on their heels and giving the Reds a commanding lead they would never relinquish. His first homer helped ignite a four-run first inning, and he followed it up shortly after with another towering shot, turning the game into a rout before it ever had a chance to settle. 

What made Stewart’s performance even more impressive was the context. He’s not just flashing occasional power—he’s doing it consistently. The two-homer game gave him the rookie lead in home runs, continuing a torrid start to his first full MLB season and reinforcing the idea that his bat is already among the most dangerous in the Reds’ lineup. 

The offensive explosion wasn’t limited to Stewart, as Elly De La Cruz and Eugenio Suárez also went deep, but Stewart was the clear headliner. Meanwhile, pitcher Rhett Lowder delivered a strong outing, giving Cincinnati stability on the mound to match the fireworks at the plate. 

For the Reds, this wasn’t just another win—it was a glimpse of a future built around Stewart’s bat. Nights like this don’t just win games; they announce that a young player is becoming a centerpiece.

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On today's show, we discuss another Reds 2-1 victory where they only recorded 3 hits and were vaulted by two home runs from Spencer Steer and Sal Stewart. Also, some EDGE rusher targets for the Cincinnati Bengals in rounds 2-5, Mel Kiper's final mock draft for ESPN and the Hornets' wild win over the Heat in last night's NBA play-in game.

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The Cincinnati Reds edged out the San Francisco Giants in a tightly contested 2–1 victory last night, showcasing strong pitching and just enough timely hitting to secure the win. In a game defined by precision and discipline, both teams struggled to generate offense, but the Reds ultimately capitalized on their limited opportunities.

Cincinnati struck first, manufacturing a run early with a combination of patient at-bats and smart baserunning. Later in the game, they added what proved to be the decisive second run, taking advantage of a defensive miscue by the Giants. While the Reds didn’t rack up many hits, their ability to execute in key moments made the difference.

The real story, however, was the Reds’ pitching staff. The starting pitcher delivered an impressive outing, keeping Giants hitters off balance with a mix of off-speed pitches and well-located fastballs. He worked deep into the game, allowing just one run while striking out several batters. The bullpen followed with a shutdown performance, preserving the narrow lead under pressure in the late innings.

San Francisco’s lone run came after they managed to string together a couple of hits, briefly threatening to shift momentum. However, they were unable to sustain rallies, as Cincinnati’s defense held firm and avoided costly mistakes.

This win highlights Cincinnati’s growing confidence and ability to win close games. By combining solid pitching, opportunistic offense, and steady defense, the Reds demonstrated a formula that could serve them well throughout the season.

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On today's show, we discuss the Reds optioning Noelvi Marte to Louisville and calling up Rece Hinds. Also, some Bengals draft questions at cornerback: Could Keionte Scott be a target in the second round? Plus, Stone's first MLB power rankings of the season and NBA postseason predictions.

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The Cincinnati Bengals may feel optimistic about their cornerback room heading into 2026 with Dax Hill and DJ Turner in place, but the position remains far from settled. Both players bring intriguing traits, yet neither has fully proven they can anchor a high-level secondary over a full season against elite competition.

Dax Hill’s transition from safety to cornerback has shown flashes, particularly in man coverage and athletic recovery ability. However, consistency is still a concern. Technique at corner—especially against top-tier route runners—requires refined footwork and anticipation that can take years to master. Hill’s versatility is valuable, but it can also be a double-edged sword if he’s forced into a full-time outside role without elite-level polish.

DJ Turner, meanwhile, offers speed and competitiveness, but he profiles more naturally as a complementary piece than a true No. 1 corner. His size limitations can be exploited by bigger receivers, and while he can hold his own, asking him to consistently shadow opposing WR1s is a tall order. Depth is also a concern; beyond Hill and Turner, the Bengals lack proven, reliable options who can step in without a significant drop-off.

Another key factor is the AFC landscape. With quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Joe Burrow’s own need to win shootouts, coverage breakdowns are magnified. You need multiple corners who can hold up in isolation, not just one or two developing players.

Injuries further complicate things. Cornerback is a physically demanding position with frequent soft-tissue injuries, and relying heavily on two young players increases risk. One injury could expose the entire defense.

Ultimately, while Hill and Turner are promising building blocks, the Bengals still need a true shutdown-caliber presence and stronger depth to compete at a championship level.

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On today's show, we discuss the Cincinnati Reds optioning Noelvi Marte to Triple-A Louisville and calling up Rece Hinds, as well as a disappointing series loss to the Angels. Plus, Rory McIlroy holds off Scottie Scheffler to win second straight Masters Tournament and a concerning report on Bengals draft prospect Rueben Bain surfaces.

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The Cincinnati Reds dropped a frustrating series to the Los Angeles Angels, exposing a few recurring issues that have lingered throughout their season. While the matchup looked favorable on paper, the Reds struggled to capitalize on key moments, ultimately letting winnable games slip away.

Offensively, Cincinnati showed flashes of potential but lacked consistency. There were innings where the lineup generated traffic on the bases, yet timely hitting proved elusive. Too often, rallies stalled due to strikeouts or weak contact, preventing the Reds from delivering the decisive blows needed to swing momentum. Against an Angels pitching staff that has been inconsistent this year, the Reds’ inability to fully exploit opportunities stood out.

Pitching, particularly from the bullpen, also played a role in the series loss. Starters generally kept games within reach, but late-inning execution faltered. Missed locations and an inability to put hitters away allowed the Angels to claw back or extend leads. In tight games, those small lapses made a significant difference, turning competitive contests into losses.

Defensively, the Reds were mostly steady, but even minor mistakes at critical times added pressure on both pitchers and hitters. Against a team like the Angels, which can capitalize quickly with power bats, any extra outs or misplays become magnified.

One bright spot for Cincinnati was the continued development of its young core. Even in defeat, there were encouraging signs from emerging players gaining experience in high-leverage situations. However, growth alone doesn’t offset the importance of closing out games and securing series wins, especially as the season progresses.

Ultimately, the series served as a reminder that the Reds must sharpen their execution across all phases—hitting, pitching, and situational awareness. If they can address those issues, future matchups like this could yield very different results.

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