Bengals Unveil 2026 Draft Picks

Top prospects projected to join Cincinnati's roster in upcoming NFL Draft

Feb. 26, 2026 at 11:10pm

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The Cincinnati Bengals are preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft, where they hold the 10th overall pick. Experts have released their latest mock drafts, projecting the team to select a mix of defensive playmakers and offensive linemen to bolster their roster.

Why it matters

The Bengals are looking to build on their recent success and return to the playoffs. Their draft picks will be crucial in addressing key needs on both sides of the ball and setting the team up for long-term contention in the AFC North.

The details

Among the top prospects linked to the Bengals are EDGE Rueben Bain Jr. from Miami, LB Sonny Styles and S Caleb Downs from Ohio State, CB Mansoor Delane from LSU, OT Francis Mauigoa from Miami, and CB Jermod McCoy from Tennessee. Analysts praise Bain's pass-rushing ability, Styles' instincts and versatility, Downs' playmaking skills, and the technical refinement of Delane and McCoy in coverage.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in April.
  • The Bengals will have the 10th overall pick in the first round.

The players

Rueben Bain Jr.

A defensive end from the University of Miami who had 9.5 sacks in 2025 and is praised for his power, speed, and ability to disrupt opposing offenses.

Sonny Styles

A linebacker from Ohio State University who is considered a top-five talent in the draft class and could be an immediate impact player in the middle of the Bengals' defense.

Caleb Downs

A versatile safety from Ohio State University who is regarded as one of the best players in the entire draft class, with the ability to excel in coverage, run support, and as a blitzer.

Mansoor Delane

A cornerback from Louisiana State University who was a shutdown defender in 2025 and is considered pro-ready to contribute to the Bengals' secondary.

Francis Mauigoa

An offensive tackle from the University of Miami who has experience at right tackle and could potentially move inside to guard, providing valuable depth and versatility to the Bengals' offensive line.

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What they’re saying

“Bain has the ability to wreck opponent game plans. He brings power, speed and bend, and he had 9.5 sacks in 2025. Defensive coordinator Al Golden could move him around on the D-line to find matchup advantages and turn him loose in the pass rush.”

— Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN Analyst

“Styles would be a slam dunk to drop in the middle of the defense.”

— Paul Dehner Jr., Analyst

“Caleb Downs is an instinctive, highly skilled, versatile safety who can be used in a number of different spots and in a number of different ways, and he never takes a snap off. He has a knack for being the guy who makes The Play every time one is needed.”

— Tom Fornelli, Analyst

What’s next

The Bengals will continue to evaluate prospects at the NFL Combine in the coming weeks as they finalize their draft board ahead of the April selection process.

The takeaway

The Bengals have the opportunity to add several high-impact defensive players in the 2026 draft, which could help them take the next step and contend for a Super Bowl championship. Their ability to identify and develop top talent will be crucial in maintaining their status as one of the AFC's elite teams.