The Cincinnati Bengals concluded their 2024 NFL season with a 9-8 record, narrowly missing the playoffs for the second consecutive year. Despite a strong finish, winning their last five games, the team's early struggles, marked by a 4-8 start, proved too significant to overcome. 

Offensive Performance

Quarterback Joe Burrow delivered an exceptional season, throwing for 4,918 yards and 43 touchdowns against nine interceptions. His performance earned him a Pro Football Focus grade of 93.9, ranking third among NFL quarterbacks. Burrow's primary target, wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase, achieved a remarkable Triple Crown season, leading the league with 127 receptions, 1,708 receiving yards, and 17 touchdowns. The offense averaged 27.8 points per game, placing them sixth in the league. Despite these impressive aerial statistics, the Bengals' rushing attack struggled, averaging just 92.6 yards per game, ranking 30th in the NFL. Running back Chase Brown led the team with 990 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, but the lack of a consistent ground game often made the offense one-dimensional. ​

Defensive Challenges

Defensively, the Bengals faced significant issues, allowing 25.5 points per game, ranking 25th in the league. The unit conceded 434 points over the season, highlighting a need for improvement. Defensive end Trey Hendrickson was a standout performer, leading the NFL with 17.5 sacks. However, the defense's inability to consistently stop opposing offenses was a recurring problem throughout the season.​

Offseason Priorities

The 2025 offseason presents critical challenges for the Bengals' front office. Securing long-term contracts for key offensive weapons is paramount. Ja'Marr Chase is seeking a contract that could reset the non-quarterback market, potentially exceeding $40 million annually. Tee Higgins has been franchise-tagged for the second consecutive year at $26.2 million, with both sides working towards a long-term agreement. Quarterback Joe Burrow has publicly emphasized the importance of retaining these core players, expressing his willingness to restructure his own contract to facilitate their extensions. Burrow's leadership and commitment to maintaining the team's offensive nucleus are evident as he advocates for the retention of key contributors.

The Bengals also face decisions regarding tight end Mike Gesicki, who had a productive 2024 season with 65 receptions for 665 yards. Retaining Gesicki could provide stability and versatility to the offense, especially if negotiations with other receivers face challenges.

Defensive Considerations

On the defensive side, extending Trey Hendrickson is a priority. Despite his age nearing 31, Hendrickson's league-leading sack total underscores his value to the Bengals' pass rush. Balancing his contract demands with the team's salary cap constraints will require strategic planning. ​

Strategic Outlook

The Bengals enter the 2025 offseason with approximately $46.5 million in cap space, which could increase to $60 million with strategic roster moves. This financial flexibility is crucial as they aim to secure their core players and address roster deficiencies. Improving the offensive line to bolster the running game and enhance pass protection is essential. Additionally, reinforcing the defensive secondary and linebacker corps will be vital to address the defensive shortcomings experienced in 2024.​

The Bengals' ability to navigate these offseason challenges effectively will determine their competitiveness in the 2025 season. Retaining key offensive talents, strengthening the defense, and making strategic acquisitions are critical steps to ensure the team capitalizes on its potential and returns to playoff contention.