As the Cincinnati Bengals look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, the team is in a prime position to continue building on their strong roster and make a push for further success. With quarterback Joe Burrow leading the charge and a solid foundation on both offense and defense, the Bengals are a serious contender in the AFC. However, like any team with championship aspirations, there are still areas of need that must be addressed in the draft to elevate the team to the next level. Here’s a breakdown of the Bengals’ draft picks, predictions for potential targets, and the key needs they must focus on during the 2025 draft.
Bengals’ 2025 NFL Draft Picks
The Bengals enter the 2025 NFL Draft with several important picks that can help them fill crucial holes and provide depth to their roster. While they may not have a top-10 pick, they are in a good position to make significant improvements. Here’s a look at the Bengals’ picks for the upcoming draft:
- Round 1 – Pick 23: The Bengals hold the 23rd overall pick in the first round, a spot that could allow them to snag an immediate impact player in the trenches or secondary.
- Round 2 – Pick 55: Their second-round pick will allow them to target a position of need, whether it’s cornerback, pass rusher, or another offensive weapon.
- Round 3 – Pick 87: A third-round pick gives the Bengals a chance to grab a talented player who could develop into a contributor over time, particularly in a rotational role.
- Round 4 – Pick 119: The fourth round will likely be focused on adding depth and finding a sleeper pick to potentially provide long-term value.
- Round 5 – Pick 151: This round is an opportunity for the Bengals to add depth to the roster, particularly on special teams or with a developmental prospect.
- Round 6 – Pick 183: With a late-round pick, the Bengals may look to target high-upside prospects, hoping to develop them into contributors for the future.
- Round 7 – Pick 215: The seventh round will likely focus on finding hidden gems or special teams contributors to round out the roster.
Key Needs for the Bengals
Despite a strong core group of players, the Bengals have several key needs that must be addressed in the 2025 NFL Draft to continue their push toward a Super Bowl appearance. Below are the most important positions of need that the team will be looking to fill:
1. Offensive Line
While the Bengals have made strides in upgrading their offensive line in recent years, it remains a major area of concern. Joe Burrow is the franchise’s cornerstone, and protecting him should be a top priority. After facing pressure and injuries to key players in previous seasons, the Bengals need to add quality offensive line depth to better protect Burrow and open up the running game.
A versatile offensive lineman who can play both tackle and guard would be a perfect fit for the Bengals’ scheme. Look for them to target offensive line talent in the first or second rounds of the draft.
2. Cornerback
The Bengals’ secondary has been solid but could use more depth, especially in a conference full of top-tier quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and others. With the AFC being an offensive powerhouse, improving at cornerback will be essential to maintaining a competitive edge.
The team will likely look to add a starting-caliber cornerback in the first or second round who can immediately contribute to the defense, especially against high-powered offenses.
3. Pass Rusher
While the Bengals have solid pass rushers, they could use another weapon to apply consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. An edge rusher who can complement the existing defensive line and disrupt quarterbacks is an area where the Bengals can improve.
Given the increased importance of defensive playmakers in the modern NFL, adding a pass rusher with speed and versatility would significantly improve their chances in the AFC, where quarterbacks like Mahomes and Burrow thrive.
4. Wide Receiver Depth
The Bengals already boast one of the NFL’s most lethal receiving duos in Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. However, depth behind those two players is a concern. Adding another wide receiver who can step in and contribute in the event of injury or as a third option would give Burrow more weapons at his disposal.
A fast, dynamic wideout could add versatility to the offense and create mismatches in key situations. The Bengals might look to target a receiver in the later rounds to develop into a future contributor.
5. Tight End
Though the Bengals have had a solid receiving tight end in Hayden Hurst, adding another more athletic and versatile tight end could further enhance Burrow’s options. A tight end who can stretch the field and provide a safety valve in the middle of the field could prove valuable, especially in high-stakes games.
Draft Predictions
With the 23rd pick in the first round, the Bengals could opt for an offensive lineman like Peter Skoronski (Northwestern), a player who can fill an immediate need at tackle or guard. His ability to step in and protect Burrow while opening up lanes in the run game would be a significant boost to their offense.
In the second round, the Bengals may target a cornerback such as Kelee Ringo (Georgia) or Cam Smith (South Carolina) to help solidify their secondary. Both players have the potential to start right away and contribute in a high-pressure division.
Another player the Bengals could target in later rounds is a pass rusher like Lukas Van Ness (Iowa), whose high motor and versatility could give the Bengals an added edge on defense.
Conclusion
The Cincinnati Bengals are in a great position to further solidify their roster during the 2025 NFL Draft. By focusing on offensive line, cornerback, pass rusher, and wide receiver depth, the Bengals can continue to build around Joe Burrow and take another step toward becoming Super Bowl contenders. With a strong draft class, the Bengals have the opportunity to continue their growth and push for sustained success in the competitive AFC.
