The Cincinnati Bengals’ locker room in 2025 looks remarkably familiar. The table tennis stations, though less frequented post-practice, remain central. Quarterback Joe Burrow’s locker is still the first near the hallway, and the faces inside are largely the same. After missing the playoffs for two consecutive years, the Bengals chose not to overhaul their roster. Instead, they’re banking on continuity and incremental improvements to turn their fortunes around.

Continuity Over Chaos

Head coach Zac Taylor expressed confidence in the current roster, emphasizing the importance of stability. "I feel good about where our team is at right now," Taylor said. "I’m excited to get through the preseason and go play games because I see what I see in practice."

Big Contracts, Big Expectations

The Bengals made significant investments in their star players this offseason. Wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins signed extensions worth a combined $276 million, while defensive end Trey Hendrickson is negotiating his own deal. These contracts shaped the team’s offseason strategy, limiting their ability to make major external acquisitions.

Strategic Additions

Most of the Bengals’ changes were focused on the middle of the field—offensive and defensive lines and linebacker positions. Only four new additions are projected as Week 1 starters, including rookies Dylan Fairchild (left guard) and Demetrius Knight Jr. (linebacker).

Coaching Shake-Up

The most significant change came on the coaching staff. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, who led the defense for Taylor’s first six seasons, was replaced after a disappointing 2024 campaign. Al Golden, previously the linebackers coach and defensive coordinator at Notre Dame, stepped into the role.

Defensive Focus

Golden emphasized the importance of intelligence and toughness in the new additions. "We wanted a bunch of smart guys, tough guys, self-starters," he said. "We think that’s the recipe we need." Key defensive additions like T.J. Slaton and Knight aim to improve a unit that ranked 26th in average yards per carry last season.

The Road Ahead

Despite the minimal changes, players like safety Jordan Battle and defensive end Cam Sample believe the team has what it takes to succeed. "I feel like this is the best roster for the 2025 Bengals," Sample said. "We got everything we need right here."

The Bengals’ formula for success is clear: win early, support Joe Burrow, and let the young players rise to the occasion. With continuity and strategic adjustments, Cincinnati is poised for a comeback in 2025.