Bengals Sign Boye Mafe, Reshaping NFL Draft Plans

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The Cincinnati Bengals have signed free agent defensive end Boye Mafe to a three-year, $60 million contract, significantly altering their approach to the upcoming NFL Draft. Mafe, a 27-year-old former 40th overall pick, recorded 31 tackles and 2 sacks for the Seahawks last season. His addition gives the Bengals a solid veteran presence on the defensive line, but the team may still look to add more pass rushing help in the draft, particularly if one of the top edge rushers falls to their 10th overall pick.

Why it matters

The Bengals' signing of Mafe provides them with a proven veteran pass rusher, but also raises questions about how they will approach the draft, especially with their first-round selection. The team still has needs on the defensive line, and may look to add more young talent to complement Mafe.

The details

Mafe, who has 20 career sacks in four NFL seasons, is expected to be part of a defensive end rotation for the Bengals rather than being the primary pass rushing threat. The team may still look to draft an edge rusher in the first round, especially if one of the top prospects like David Bailey, Rueben Bain Jr. or Keldric Faulk falls to the 10th overall pick. Other later-round options like Malachi Lawrence of UCF and Zion Young of Missouri are also on the Bengals' radar.

• The Bengals agreed to terms with Boye Mafe on a three-year, $60 million contract on March 11, 2026.
• The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026.

What’s next

The Bengals will continue to evaluate their options for the 10th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, weighing the potential to add another top edge rusher against other positions of need.