The Cincinnati Bengals spent this offseason addressing their defense, which allowed the third-most points during the 2025 season.
Despite quarterback Joe Burrow missing substantial time with a turf toe injury, the Bengals offense was able to stay afloat as they finished as a top-10 scoring unit in the NFL last season. Heading into the 2026 season, the Bengals will hope that their defensive acquisitions pay off while their offense stays at a similar level.
However, the Bengals could still try to improve that explosive offense around Joe Burrow. One writer has pitched the idea of Cincinnati adding another wide receiver, with All-Pro pedigree, as a way to improve at the position behind Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
Cincinnati Bengals Urged to Sign DeAndre Hopkins
USA Today writer Chris Roling discussed the idea of potentially adding five-time Pro Bowl and three-time All-Pro wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, who remains a free agent after a brief stint with the division rival Baltimore Ravens.
Roling wrote:
“Hopkins turns 34 in June. But his last contract was a mere $5 million and he’s not exactly out in public making leverage plays right now. He has said and shown that he can play the slot, if needed.
The Bengals are a little tight on cap space for now. But they’re not in a position to scoff at improving roster depth.”
The idea of adding Hopkins makes sense, and he has previously praised the Bengals quarterback in the past. Hopkins previously said about Burrow, “I think Joe is one of the best. I love his game, his toughness. He took his team to a Super Bowl early in his career and I feel like he can get back there with a little bit of help.”
Hopkins’ production has declined, as he posted only 330 receiving yards with the Ravens last season, which was the lowest total of his career.
Bengals Wide Receivers
Despite having one of the premier wide receiver duos in the NFL, the Bengals have struggled to generate production behind Higgins and Chase. The team added Colbie Young with their fourth-round pick.
Young could potentially benefit from playing under a veteran like Hopkins while he settles into the NFL.
Regarding Young as a prospect, NFL Network draft analyst Lance Zierlein wrote:
“Young’s athletic traits, play strength and ball skills stand out, but missed games have limited his production. Teams will need to examine his 2024 arrest and suspension. On tape, he uses his size, muscle and catch radius to beat cornerbacks in tight quarters and above the rim. His speed and separation are average, so he’ll likely see a higher number of contested battles. His route-running needs work, but he’s a nightmare for cornerbacks to bring down after the catch. Young has talent to work with and — provided teams are comfortable after their character evaluation — has a chance to be more productive in the pros.”
Throughout his career, Hopkins has been known for his superior ball skills and ability to use his hands and body to shield defenders from the ball. Having him mentor Young could prove beneficial this year and beyond for Cincinnati.
Bengals Urged to Add 5-Time Pro Bowl Player After 2026 NFL Draft