After another challenging season, the Cincinnati Bengals are at a crossroads as they look to regroup and strategize for the 2024-2025 NFL season. With the team finishing 9-8 and missing the playoffs for the second consecutive year, it’s clear there’s much work to be done.
This past season was historic for the Bengals, albeit not for the reasons fans had hoped. Cincinnati is now the first team in NFL history to feature leaders in three major statistical categories—passing yards, receiving yards, and sacks—yet still fail to secure a postseason berth. Much of the spotlight shone on the monumental achievements of quarterback Joe Burrow, star receiver Ja'Marr Chase, and defensive end Trey Hendrickson.
Leading the charge, Burrow threw for 4,918 yards and 43 touchdowns, showcasing his elite status. Consistently ranked among the top quarterbacks, Burrow effectively carried the Bengals through turmoil, including injuries and fierce competition. Chase, recognized for his prolific receiving, achieved the trifecta: 127 receptions, 1,708 yards, and 17 touchdown catches, making him only the sixth player to achieve this feat since the Super Bowl era began.
On the defensive end, Hendrickson was equally impressive, racking up 17.5 sacks—over half of the Bengals’ total defensive effort of 34 sacks for the season. Yet, no amount of individual brilliance could overcome the hurdles the team faced.
Analyzing their season, several factors contributed to the Bengals' lack of postseason participation. Following Burrow, Chase, and Hendrickson, the supporting cast struggled to provide needed depth. The Bengals found themselves without consistent contributors who could step up when it mattered most. The rushing game was lackluster, and second-tier receiving options did not deliver when the offense needed them most.
Defensively, the unit could not hold the line, especially against the run, resulting in the Bengals ranking near the bottom of the league for total yards allowed. They often found themselves vulnerable during key moments of games, proving detrimental to their playoff aspirations. Close losses, late-game collapses, and unfortunate outcomes—these all played pivotal roles throughout the season, including overtime losses and missed opportunities.
The competition within the AFC was also fierce, featuring powerhouse teams such as Kansas City, Baltimore, Buffalo, and Miami, all of whom consistently outperformed Cincinnati. Despite finishing with nine wins, the tough landscapes of their divisional rivals proved all too impactful.
Now, as the Bengals gear up for the offseason, they face both challenges and opportunities. Among their primary concerns are the 23 impending free agents on the roster, including star wideout Tee Higgins and defensive tackle B.J. Hill. The offseason strategy must focus on solidifying the offensive line, ensuring Burrow receives the protection he requires to thrive, alongside establishing a more formidable running game. Enhancing the depth of the roster—including the secondary and interior line—will also be pivotal.
With the core talent of Burrow, Chase, and Hendrickson firmly established, Bengals fans harbor hopes for strategic adjustments. Can this talented core finally resolve their struggles to become champions next season? The upcoming months will reveal whether Cincinnati can shift gears and transform individual luminescence to team success as they work toward the ultimate goal of playoff glory in 2025.