Bengals Progress Report: Grading the Defense

After five weeks, the Cincinnati Bengals are 3-2 and returning from their bye, carrying optimism tempered by defensive inconsistency. Cincinnati revamped its defense in the offseason, trading the No. 10 overall pick to the New York Giants for Dexter Lawrence and signing Boye Mafe, Jonathan Allen, Bryan Cook, and Kyle Dugger. The Bengals began 2-0, then struggled, including a win over winless Miami where the defense allowed 24 points—far above the Dolphins’ season-low scoring mark. Run defense has slipped after early effectiveness, with PFF citing a 50.3 tackling grade and 47 missed tackles. Pass rush has been stronger, tied for third in sacks.