Bengals Defense on Track to Fix Massive Weakness During 2026 Season

ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky complimented Jonathan Allen, Demetrius Knight Jr. and Barrett Carter following the Bengals' 35-13 win over the Ravens.

The defense has improved, but it also seems to be a feast-or-famine unit.

Cincinnati’s defense is crumbling under a wave of missed tackles. A reliance on struggling young linebackers has left the unit exposed, threatening to derail Joe Burrow’s season.

Dexter Lawrence and Barrett Carter talk about the Bengals' defensive play in a loss to the Jaguars on Sunday, Oct. 4.

'Just Flat From The Whole Team' - Barrett Carter Ready To Dial Up Defensive Intensity After Steelers Speed Bump

Barrett Carter on Bengals' defense, Loss to Steelers

The Cincinnati Bengals Linebackers Flashing Big Improvement Following Week 1

The Bengals gambled on keeping both LBs as starters and Week 1 was a good start.