The Cincinnati Bengals enter the 2025 NFL season with high expectations, led by an elite passing game featuring Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase. However, a glaring issue from last season remains unresolved: the interior defensive line, which was a significant weakness.
In 2024, Cincinnati’s defense ranked 28th in EPA per rush attempt, signaling consistent struggles against the run. While Trey Hendrickson’s 17.5 sacks anchored the pass rush, the interior line lacked similar production, contributing to a lackluster defensive performance. The offseason brought the addition of Tedarrell Slaton, but concerns persist about whether this move alone is enough to elevate the unit’s performance.
Baltimore Ravens At Cincinnati Bengals Nfl Week 18
The team also used a first-round pick on Shemar Stewart, a promising defensive lineman, but his contract dispute delayed his offseason preparation. Relying on a rookie to immediately fix a struggling unit is a risky proposition, especially when the interior rotation remains thin. Beyond Stewart and Slaton, the team has yet to establish reliable contributors, leaving questions about their ability to stop opposing offenses in critical moments.
Despite these concerns, Cincinnati remain competitive thanks to its potent offense. Burrow led the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns last season, while Chase dominated in receptions and receiving yards. Still, defensive shortcomings could limit their potential in a highly competitive AFC North.
NFL Analysis Points Out Cincinnati Bengals’ Major Issue Before 2025 NFL Season
Baltimore Ravens At Cincinnati Bengals Nfl Week 18
Cincinnati has to address a big issue before the upcoming season starts. This is detailed more in an analysis by Alex Ballentine for Bleacher Report.
Biggest Weakness: Defensive Line
At this point, the Bengals need to do whatever they can to get Trey Hendrickson to training camp. Even with him, they are relying on a lot of progression to even have a serviceable defensive line.
Hendrickson had 17.5 sacks in 2024. The rest of the defense had 18.5 combined. They took Shemar Stewart in the first round to bolster that pass rush, but he missed most of the offseason training program and some of training camp due to a contract dispute.
The interior was also a mess last season. The defense ranked 28th in EPA per rush attempt.
Cincinnati’s projected third-place divisional finish underscores the importance of addressing their defensive interior. If improvements materialize, the Bengals could emerge as contenders; if not, their weaknesses may overshadow their offensive brilliance.
The Bengals’ success this season depends largely on whether their defensive line can rise to the challenge. With high expectations and minimal room for error, Cincinnati’s ability to shore up its interior defense will define its postseason hopes.
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