The Bengals are off to a promising start. In Episode 132, we break down Cincinnati’s preseason opener against Detroit, the biggest training camp risers, key roster battles, injury updates, and young players making a strong case for the 53-man roster. Plus, we take a quick trip around the NFL for the biggest storylines from the first week of preseason action.

The Bengals finally did what fans have demanded for years: they acted like a team determined to maximize Joe Burrow’s championship window. After nearly $300 million in offseason contracts, an aggressive defensive rebuild and the blockbuster trade for Dexter Lawrence, Cincinnati enters 2026 with its most talented roster in years—and no excuses left.

In Episode 131 of Bengal Bites, I catch up on everything that has happened since the draft. I break down the Bengals’ rookie class, including pass rusher Cashius Howell, cornerback Tacario Davis, future center candidate Connor Lew, wide receiver Colbie Young and an especially compelling story involving seventh-round pick and Marine officer Landon Robinson.

Then it’s time for the early training-camp storylines: the Shemar Stewart injury, Erick All’s return, the rebuilt defensive line’s dominant start, the emerging rookies and the roster battles that could determine the final 53.

Finally, I look at the 2026 schedule—including the Madrid game and Trey Hendrickson’s return to Cincinnati as a Raven—the Myles Garrett trade, the newest Ring of Honor selections and the organizational changes taking place behind the scenes.

The Bengals’ deserve credit for making moves. But spending money and winning the offseason aren’t the goal. After three consecutive years without a playoff appearance, this team must prove that all of that talent can translate into wins when the games actually count.

They wouldn't. They couldn't! They DID!? The Bengals traded away the 10th overall pick in the 2026 draft for Defensive Tackle Dexter Lawrence, who had requested a trade from the NY Giants. Only time will tell whether this was a wise decision, but for now, let's get excited! (And don't look at his stats from last year)

NFL Free Agency 2026 has Begun! The Bengals got off to their traditionally sluggish start, but they did eventually manage to overpay a couple of players to join the defense in 2026. While other teams were wheelin' and dealin', the Bengals seem content to maintain the status quo indefinitely. Trey Hendrickson will be back in Paycor Stadium, but wearing a purple Ravens jersey next season. Joseph Ossai left for the Jets. And the Bengals "replaced" them with Boye Mafe and his 2 sacks last season??? Bryan Cook should be much better than Geno Stone at safety, but we won't really know for 6 months when games are played. As Marvin Lewis said, "I see better than I hear".

#nfl #bengals #whodey

The 2025-2026 NFL Season has concluded, the Seattle Seahawks are victorious. In this episode, we quickly recap the NFL playoffs, coaching changes around the league, and how the Bengals compare to the competition. So many teams are making changes, but the Bengals are sticking with status quo. Is there a good reason? Listen Now!

I'm still scratching my head about that Duke Tobin press conference. What was the point? I didn't hear any specific plans to improve next season beyond "working harder". The fans have reacted mostly negatively to this, so was it successful? I'm not sure. Zac Taylor is the lone remaining AFC North Head Coach. Is that an advantage? I'm not sure about that either.... Cancun on 3!

Another frustrating loss to a team the Bengals had no business losing to. The Bengals should have won this game by 25, but they found a way to lose to the hapless Browns and Shedeur Sanders, tripping over his own feet! I don't care what Zac Taylor says, he is a terrible head coach. Ja'Marr Chase doesn't have any confidence in him, why should I? But Mike Brown would like to maintain the status quo, including fans paying him money (Don't you remember that Super Bowl 4 years ago??). I think it's for the best that the season is over. I am not enjoying this anymore! #bengals #whodey #nfl

We reach the conclusion of this regular season. No playoffs this year. Another Battle of Ohio for nothing but intra-state pride. Hopefully nobody gets injured. It's probably going to look like a pre-season game, but maybe Chase Brown will get over 1,000 yards for the season. Joe Burrow is supposed to play, but maybe they will send Joe Flacco out and let Myles Garrett sack him a couple times for the record. #nfl #whodey #bengals