2025 NFL Mock Draft: Bengals Secure Elite Defensive End
The Cincinnati Bengals are entering 2025 after a season that showed both flashes of brilliance and areas in need of improvement. As the team prepares for the future, the Bengals will look to bolster their defense, particularly along the defensive line, in the 2025 NFL Draft. With a championship window wide open and a quarterback in Joe Burrow that can lead the offense for years to come, now is the time to invest heavily in a game-changing defensive player who can help get the Bengals over the hump.
While Cincinnati’s offense is already loaded with playmakers, including Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins, the defense has been inconsistent at times. One of the key areas that has stood out is their pass rush. The Bengals have an elite linebacker in Logan Wilson and solid pieces in the secondary with Jessie Bates III and Chidobe Awuzie, but they need a dynamic pass rusher to complement their defense and disrupt opposing quarterbacks. A premier edge rusher could be the missing piece to elevate this defense to an elite level.
In this mock draft, the Bengals use their first-round pick to address this need by selecting a star defensive end that could make an immediate impact. Let’s break down their potential pick, analyze the top defensive ends in the class, and explore how this could shape the future of the franchise.
Team Overview: Bengals’ Needs in 2025
Before diving into the draft, it’s important to understand where the Bengals currently stand and what they need to build around.
Offensive Strengths:
- Quarterback Joe Burrow is the centerpiece of the offense, one of the most talented young quarterbacks in the league. He has shown his ability to lead the Bengals to playoff contention and ultimately to the Super Bowl.
- Wide Receivers Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Tyler Boyd give Burrow one of the most dynamic receiving trios in the NFL. Chase, in particular, has established himself as a top-tier receiver and game-breaker.
- Running back Joe Mixon still provides balance, though he’s approaching the tail end of his prime. Still, the team has good depth at the running back position.
Defensive Needs:
- Pass Rush: Despite solid individual performers like Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard, the Bengals could benefit from a young, elite edge rusher to take their defensive front to the next level.
- Linebacker Depth: While Logan Wilson is a standout, depth behind him could be improved to provide more rotational options and cover potential injuries.
- Cornerback Depth: With aging players like Chidobe Awuzie and the possibility of free agency looming, cornerback could be a position to address for the long term.
Why the Bengals Need a Star Defensive End
The Bengals have generally had success with a steady pass rush led by Trey Hendrickson, but this can be a volatile area. Hendrickson is a good player, but he’s been inconsistent at times, and the team could use more dynamism from the edge rusher spot. The pass rush is a crucial factor in modern NFL defenses, and a true game-changing pass rusher can disrupt offenses, making life easier for the secondary.
A top-tier defensive end can also set the tone for the entire defense, demanding constant attention from offensive lines and freeing up other pass rushers to make plays. The Bengals should look for someone who can not only be a consistent presence but also an explosive talent capable of taking over games.
Top Defensive Ends in the 2025 Draft Class
Several top prospects could fill this role for Cincinnati in the first round of the draft. Here’s a look at the most likely candidates:
- Javon White – EDGE, Alabama
- Height: 6’5” | Weight: 270 lbs
- Pros: White is one of the most polished edge rushers in this class, with a great combination of size, strength, and speed. He’s been dominant at Alabama, showing the ability to set the edge against the run while also displaying explosive quickness as a pass rusher. His versatility to play both as a 4-3 defensive end or as a stand-up rusher in a 3-4 scheme makes him an ideal fit for various defensive systems.
- Cons: While White has excellent physical traits, some evaluators have questioned his consistency in terms of hand technique and his ability to bend around the edge. However, with the right coaching, these aspects could improve.
- Fit for the Bengals: White’s ability to rush the passer and set the edge against the run would make him a seamless fit with Cincinnati’s current defense. Pairing him with Trey Hendrickson could give the Bengals a formidable duo off the edge, and his high motor would make an immediate impact.
- Tyler Robinson – EDGE, Georgia
- Height: 6’4” | Weight: 265 lbs
- Pros: Robinson is another player who’s been rising up draft boards, with excellent tape from his time at Georgia. He’s fast, explosive, and relentless when attacking the quarterback. Robinson’s burst off the line and ability to corner with ease make him a nightmare for tackles. His high football IQ also helps him read plays and adapt during games.
- Cons: Robinson can struggle against the run at times and has been known to get caught up in the wash. However, his pass-rushing upside is undeniable, and he has the tools to improve his overall game.
- Fit for the Bengals: Robinson’s ability to consistently pressure the quarterback would immediately make him a key player in the Bengals’ defense. With a little more strength against the run, he could become an elite edge rusher in the NFL.
- Zayden Foster – EDGE, Michigan
- Height: 6’6” | Weight: 275 lbs
- Pros: Foster is a powerful, athletic player who uses his length and strength to his advantage. He’s adept at both bull rushing and using his athleticism to bend the edge. Foster also has the ability to cover ground quickly and make plays in the backfield.
- Cons: His technique is still a work in progress, and sometimes his aggressiveness can get the best of him, leading to missed assignments or overextension.
- Fit for the Bengals: Foster’s potential is high, and if developed properly, he could form an excellent tandem with Trey Hendrickson, providing a consistent pass rush for Cincinnati.
Bengals’ Selection: Javon White, EDGE, Alabama
After evaluating all the potential candidates, it’s likely that Javon White would be the ideal selection for the Bengals in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. White’s combination of size, strength, and versatility makes him a perfect fit for the Bengals’ defensive scheme. He can immediately contribute as a starter, whether as a traditional defensive end or in a more versatile role, and his ceiling is extremely high.
Adding White to the defensive front would immediately elevate Cincinnati’s pass rush, which is crucial for competing with high-powered offenses in the AFC, such as the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills. White’s ability to get after the quarterback will also help alleviate pressure on the secondary, allowing cornerbacks and safeties to cover more effectively and create turnovers.
Impact on the Team’s Future
By drafting a defensive end of White’s caliber, the Bengals would significantly enhance their defense, setting them up for long-term success. Pairing him with Hendrickson on the other side would provide a dynamic duo capable of taking over games. With a strong pass rush, the Bengals would have the defensive firepower needed to complement their explosive offense, positioning them as a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
In the long term, White could emerge as one of the league’s top pass rushers, helping the Bengals contend for championships year after year. This move would solidify their defense as one of the most feared in the league, ensuring they have the talent to compete in both the AFC North and on the broader playoff stage.
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