Cincinnati Bengals 2026 Positional Concerns Ft. Offensive Tackle + Elly De La Cruz's First Walk-Off

As the Cincinnati Bengals enter the 2026 season with playoff expectations, three positions deserve close attention: offensive tackle, linebacker and cornerback. None is necessarily a disaster, but each carries enough uncertainty to become a problem if injuries or inconsistent play strike.

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Offensive tackle is a concern because Cincinnati cannot afford to let protection become a weakness in front of Joe Burrow. Orlando Brown Jr. remains an important piece on the left side, but he is now 30, while the depth behind the starters is less proven. The Bengals’ current roster does offer options such as Cody Ford, but recent roster evaluations have continued to identify offensive-line depth as an area of concern. The Bengals need their tackles to stay healthy and provide consistent pass protection, particularly against the AFC North’s talented defensive fronts.

Linebacker may be the biggest defensive question mark. Cincinnati is counting heavily on young players such as Demetrius Knight Jr. and Barrett Carter, who were forced into significant roles last season after Logan Wilson was traded. The Bengals added veterans and competition, but the unit still lacks the proven, high-level presence of some divisional rivals. If the young linebackers take a major step forward, this concern could quickly disappear. If they don't, Cincinnati could struggle against the run and in coverage.

Cornerback is another position where the Bengals have talent but uncertainty. DJ Turner has emerged as a promising player, but Cincinnati lost Cam Taylor-Britt and is relying on younger options to fill out the group. The AFC North is loaded with quarterbacks and receivers capable of exposing depth issues, making reliable cornerback play essential.

Ultimately, these three positions could determine how far the Bengals go in 2026. Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and an improved defensive front give Cincinnati plenty of strength, but weaknesses at tackle, linebacker or corner could prevent the team from reaching its ceiling.

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