Two years of missing the playoffs in the middle of Joe Burrow’s prime isn’t what the Cincinnati Bengals had in mind. But after extending both Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase to record-breaking, historic deals, the Bengals need defensive help—immediately.
Last year, their defense was a disaster, making the entire unit a priority heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. Here’s what the latest mock draft from PFSN suggests is the best course of action for Cincinnati to retool on the fly.
17) Tyler Booker, OG, Alabama
“Bengals fans will be torn on this pick—and understandably so. Tyler Booker tested as a below-average athlete, and Cincinnati has been burned before by similar offensive linemen. But the tape is strong, and in the Bengals’ pass-heavy scheme, he’d be able to excel.”
“Booker makes up for his middling mobility with underrated flexibility and knee bend, efficient footwork, violent hands, and strong positional awareness. On top of it all, he’s a maniacal competitor.”
49) T.J. Sanders, DT, South Carolina
At 6-foot-4 and nearly 300 pounds, with over 33-inch arms, T.J. Sanders is rock-solid in run defense. He brings an elite power profile that lets him shoot gaps as a pass rusher. Add in his quickness and a developing move set, and the foundation for a game-changer is there.
While he still has room to grow, Sanders can be a reliable rotational piece who develops into a consistent starter.
81) Kyle Kennard, EDGE, South Carolina
“Regardless of what happens with Trey Hendrickson, the Bengals could use more help on the edge. Kyle Kennard brings the kind of power and energy that earns playing time early. His pass-rush upside—thanks to his speed and length—should flash right away.”
He’ll need to add some mass to become a real difference-maker, but his production at South Carolina, along with his leadership traits, should be an asset in the locker room.
119) Denzel Burke, CB, Ohio State
Burke’s clean coverage technique and ability to compete in contested situations make him a reliable option on the outside. He’s physical enough to handle bigger receivers and has the kind of edge that translates well to the next level.
His ceiling may not be elite, but a dependable, starting-caliber corner at this stage of the draft is still great value.
153) Dan Jackson, S, Georgia
Jackson won’t be a full-time starter, but his effort and high football IQ make him serviceable in sub-packages. He also brings special teams value and could help round out Cincinnati’s depth in the secondary.
193) Kyle Monangai, RB, Rutgers
With back-to-back 1,200-yard seasons, 21 touchdowns, and an average of over five yards per carry, Monangai could be the perfect fit in Cincinnati’s offense.
His ball security—zero fumbles in more than 700 career touches—is a huge plus. His physical running style and reliability in short-yardage situations could earn him a solid role backing up Joe Mixon or rotating in.