Bengals Urged to Sign Jaguars LB After Rookie Struggles

Veteran Pro Bowler Devin Lloyd could provide leadership to Cincinnati's linebacker corps.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Cincinnati Bengals are in need of help at linebacker after their rookie duo of Barrett Carter and Demetrius Knight Jr. struggled mightily in 2025. NFL analyst Dalton Wasserman is urging the Bengals to sign veteran Pro Bowl linebacker Devin Lloyd from the Jacksonville Jaguars in free agency to bolster their defense.

Why it matters

The Bengals' linebacker unit was a major weakness in 2025, ranking last in the NFL in overall PFF grade. Adding an experienced, playmaking linebacker like Lloyd could provide a significant upgrade and stabilize the middle of their defense.

The details

Lloyd, 27, earned his first Pro Bowl selection in 2025 after recording 5 interceptions, 7 passes defended, 1.5 sacks, 81 total tackles, and 10 QB hits. He would bring leadership and proven production to a Bengals linebacker corps that struggled with their young starters.

  • The Bengals' linebacker issues were a major problem throughout the 2025 NFL season.

The players

Devin Lloyd

A 27-year-old Pro Bowl linebacker for the Jacksonville Jaguars who had a strong 2025 season with 5 interceptions, 7 passes defended, and 81 total tackles.

Barrett Carter

A rookie linebacker for the Cincinnati Bengals who struggled in 2025, contributing to the team's poor linebacker play.

Demetrius Knight Jr.

Another rookie linebacker for the Cincinnati Bengals who underperformed in 2025 alongside Barrett Carter.

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What they’re saying

“Their linebacker unit was a massive problem this season in all facets. Led mostly by rookies, Demetrius Knight Jr. and Barrett Carter, Cincinnati's linebackers ranked last in the NFL in PFF overall grade.”

— Dalton Wasserman, NFL Analyst, PFF.com (sportingnews.com)

What’s next

The Bengals will look to address their linebacker needs through free agency, with Devin Lloyd emerging as a top target to provide veteran leadership and playmaking ability to their defense.

The takeaway

The Bengals' struggles at linebacker in 2025 highlighted a glaring need on their defense. Signing a proven veteran like Devin Lloyd in free agency could be a key move to shore up that unit and help the Bengals return to the playoffs in 2026.