Defensively, the Bengals were among the league’s most vulnerable, surrendering the third-most points. Even though quarterback Joe Burrow missed significant time, the offense largely delivered, leaving the defense to shoulder the load and struggle to generate stops. The team also contended with the absence of Hendrickson for most of the year, a factor that underscored the depth and consistency issues on the edge.
Hendrickson’s year was hampered by an abdominal injury, limiting him to four sacks in seven games after a 17-sack breakout season in 2024. With his contract situation unsettled, Cincinnati faces the real possibility of losing the veteran pass rusher in free agency. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler has indicated that the relationship between Hendrickson and the Bengals has “run its course,” noting that while Cincinnati could franchise-tag him, the edge defender appears poised to sign elsewhere amid a strong market for pass rushers.
The draft discussion surrounding Hendrickson’s potential heir appears to center on Reuben Bain Jr., a prediction highlighted by ESPN’s Field Yates. In his mock, Bain lands with Cincinnati at No. 10, filling a pressing need for a disruptive pass rusher across from the returning up-front talent. Bain has been described as a high-impact rusher who brings power and quick hands, earning ACC Defensive Player of the Year honors this past season and accumulating 20.5 sacks over three college seasons. Some outlets have framed Bain as the ideal “replacement” archetype for Hendrickson, though his draft stock could push him off Cincinnati’s expected range.
Prospects and scenarios remain fluid. If Bain were to fall to No. 10, analysts such as Sports Illustrated’s James Rapien view him as a near no-brainer pick for the Bengals. However, others, like CBS Sports’ Mike Renner, have suggested Bain could be off the board even earlier, with teams like the New York Jets in play for premium pass rush talent. Regardless, Bain’s profile as a relentless edge presence makes him a compelling fit for Cincinnati’s future defenses as they seek to restore their defensive identity and momentum in 2026.
