Key numbers show the collapse on that side of the ball 📊:
– 31st in total yardage allowed per game (380.9)
– 32nd in yards allowed per play (6.2)
– 29th in EPA per play (+0.07)
– 32nd in rushing yards allowed per game (147.1)
– 30th in total touchdowns allowed (51)
Shemar Stewart’s rookie impact was limited: 8 games, 1 sack.
The latest chatter: adding Nakobe Dean from the Eagles could spark a much-needed boost at linebacker 🏈. Cincinnati is also leaning on sophomores Demetrius Knight and Barrett Carter, but more playmaking is the name of the game. Dean’s 2024 stat line — 15 starts, 128 tackles, 4 pass defenses, 3 sacks, 2 fumbles recovered, 1 interception — shows the upside a veteran-ready upgrade could unlock, especially after the team leaned on big-money signings like DJ Reader, Trey Hendrickson, and Mike Hilton to fuel past deep runs ⚡📊.
Bottom line: if Cincinnati wants Burrow to stay elite and the defense to rise from the cellar, they must add impact talent in 2026 and beyond. Upside gambles like Nakobe Dean could spark a franchise-changing turnaround 🏈🔥.
