Bengals Aim to Bolster Defense in Offseason to Support Burrow

NFL insider Ian Rapoport discusses Cincinnati's plans to enhance their roster around star QB Joe Burrow.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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According to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, the Cincinnati Bengals are expected to focus their offseason efforts on upgrading the defensive side of the ball in order to better support star quarterback Joe Burrow. Rapoport stated that while the Bengals have no plans to trade Burrow, they will likely look to spend more resources on the defense than anything else this offseason.

Why it matters

The Bengals' defense was a weak spot in 2025, and improving that unit is seen as crucial to helping Burrow and the offense reach their full potential. Strengthening the defense could put Cincinnati back in Super Bowl contention after a down year.

The details

Rapoport expects the Bengals to "enhance and support everything Joe Burrow does" by spending heavily on defensive upgrades this offseason. The team could look to add proven veteran talent at multiple positions on that side of the ball, which would then allow them more flexibility in the 2026 NFL Draft.

  • The Bengals' offseason plans were discussed on NFL Gameday on Sunday, February 8, 2026.

The players

Ian Rapoport

NFL Network insider who provided analysis on the Bengals' offseason plans.

Joe Burrow

The Bengals' star quarterback, whom the team is looking to support with defensive upgrades this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“I do not expect Joe Burrow to be traded, but I do expect teams to call the Cincinnati Bengals.”

— Ian Rapoport (NFL Gameday)

“I expect them to enhance and support everything Joe Burrow does, to spend probably more on the defense than anything else.”

— Ian Rapoport (NFL Gameday)

What’s next

The Bengals will look to identify and acquire defensive free agents and trade targets in the coming months to bolster their roster around Burrow.

The takeaway

The Bengals are clearly committed to building a championship-caliber team around their star quarterback Joe Burrow, and that starts with shoring up the defensive side of the ball this offseason. Fans can expect the team to be active in free agency and the draft as they look to take the next step towards Super Bowl contention.