The Egbuka selection here comes with the caveat that Tee Higgins will not be around next season. Egbuka brings a necessary element that should help unlock another level for an already unbelievable Joe Burrow. He doesn’t have the catch radius or above-the-rim game of Higgins, but he does something potentially even more valuable in the Bengals offense. He wins IMMEDIATELY and consistently as a route runner. Don’t let that fool you into thinking he’s some third-down chain mover. Egbuka isn’t a speed demon, but he’s quick and sturdy enough to be a true three-level threat at the next level because he is already a professional route runner. In fact, he’s been a professional route runner for the better part of three seasons.
Mason Taylor was an underutilized part of the LSU passing attack. He’s a smooth operator with an outstanding understanding of space along the sideline, and his hands are very consistent. He’s well-proportioned and although he must still improve as a run blocker and pass protector, arguably no tight end in the class battles in the trenches the way Taylor did for the Tigers.
Cincinnati has to give a bit contractually. Maybe they keep Sam Hubbard if they let Tee Higgins walk, but Kennard offers them a skill set that they don’t posses currently behind Trey Hendrickson. He should immediately be a weapon on obvious passing downs for whoever is calling the Bengals defense in 2025.
The weak point of the Bengals last season was their secondary. Cobee Bryant could provide much needed depth a unit that severely lacks it.
Bengals could also take up Notre Dame DT Howard Cross' services. The Defensive Lineman made 13 solo tackles, recorded, four sacks and also defended a pass this season.
Nathan Carter of Michigan could also be a good fit for the Bengals and help them in the upcoming 2025 season. The young RB has had a decent season, recording 116 carries for 499 rushing yards, along with five TDs under his belt.
