Cincinnati Bengals 2025 NFL Season Preview
Bengals Eye 2025 Playoff Push with Renewed Firepower and Defensive Overhaul
After two seasons of coming up just short, the Cincinnati Bengals are entering the 2025 NFL campaign with a clear mission: get back to the playoffs and make a deep run. Led by star quarterback Joe Burrow, the Bengals’ offense remains one of the league’s most feared, and now with long-term deals in place for wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, the passing game looks ready to fire on all cylinders once again.
Burrow, fully healthy and locked in, will have the benefit of chemistry and consistency with his top targets. Chase continues to prove he’s one of the NFL’s elite playmakers, while Higgins offers a reliable and physical complement. Together, they form one of the most dangerous receiving duos in the game.
But the Bengals’ ambitions stretch beyond just lighting up the scoreboard. Recognizing the need for improvement on the other side of the ball, Cincinnati made bold moves on defense this offseason. A new defensive coordinator brings fresh energy and scheme changes aimed at tightening up a unit that struggled at key moments last year. The front office also added new talent to the pass rush, hoping to create more pressure and turnovers that could swing tight games in their favor.
Injuries took a toll in 2024, but the return of several key players — along with the emergence of promising young talent — has re-energized the roster. Depth, versatility, and a renewed sense of urgency are themes as training camp approaches.
Special teams also received attention. Kicker Evan McPherson is looking to bounce back from an injury-marred 2024 season and return to his clutch, game-winning form. Meanwhile, rookie punter Ryan Rehkow brings a booming leg and has impressed early with his hang time and directional kicking, providing a boost to field position battles.
The pieces are in place, the talent is undeniable, and the hunger is real. If the Bengals can stay healthy and find their rhythm early, 2025 could finally be the year they turn potential into postseason success.
