Bengals’ 2026 Free Agency Targets: Addressing Defensive Woes with Key Signings
The Cincinnati Bengals are prioritizing defensive upgrades in the 2026 NFL free agency period, aiming to address a unit that has struggled significantly in recent years. Key targets include safety Bryan Cook and edge rusher Jaelan Phillips, both seen as potential solutions to the team’s long-standing defensive issues.
Cook’s addition would significantly bolster the secondary, potentially allowing for better alignment and improved pass defense, while Phillips is expected to inject much-needed youth and pressure into the team’s pass rush, replacing the aging Trey Hendrickson.