SURPRISING Bengals 53-Man Roster Projection After Preseason Week 1

The Cincinnati Bengals have played their first preseason game, which means it’s time for our first 53-man roster projection of the 2026 season. After Thursday night’s matchup against the Detroit Lions, there are several roster battles starting to take shape — and a few surprises along the way.

Today's video is presented by QC Kinetix! Call (513) 655-3356 or visit qckinetix.com to learn more

Today's video is presented by Sharefax Credit Union! Become a member today and visit sharefax.org

We’ll go position by position, including Joe Burrow and Joe Flacco at quarterback, Chase Brown, Samaje Perine and Tahj Brooks at running back, and a wide receiver room that suddenly has more competition than expected.

At wide receiver, Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and Yoshi are locks, while Colbie Young, Mitch Tinsley, Charlie Jones, Ke'Shawn Williams and Dohnte Meyers are fighting for the remaining spots. After an impressive preseason debut, Meyers is making a serious push for the 53-man roster.

At tight end, Jack Endries may have played his way onto the team after scoring a touchdown and breaking three tackles on an impressive catch-and-run against Detroit. We’ll also discuss Tanner Hudson, Mike Gesicki, Drew Sample and Erick All.

The offensive line is another major storyline. Orlando Brown Jr., Amarius Mims, Ted Karras, Dylan Fairchild and Dalton Risner headline the group, but Cincinnati’s depth at tackle remains a concern. Could the Bengals need to add a veteran before Week 1?

On the defensive line, Kris Jenkins Jr. and seventh-round rookie Landon Robinson made strong cases to stick around, while Dexter Lawrence, Jonathan Allen, B.J. Hill, Boye Mafe and Myles Murphy anchor the group.

We’ll also break down the linebacker, cornerback and safety competitions, including PJ Jules, Daijahn Anthony, Russ Yeast, Swayze Bozeman, Barrett Carter, Demetrius Knight and DJ Ivey.

Who makes the Bengals’ final 53?