The Cincinnati Bengals have to be one of the most frustrating teams in the NFL, as they have now missed the playoffs for the third year in a row despite having an elite quarterback right in the middle of his prime. One thing that has stuck out with the Bengals is the overall refusal to spend.
It's really that simple - the Bengals need to spend more money to improve the roster. Approaching free agency, it's clear that Cincinnati has some obvious needs. Despite the top-tier offense, the defense has left a bit to be desired, and the offensive line has never really fully come together.
Fortunately for the Bengals, we've helped them out here and have identified a few free agents they should sign at all costs when free agency begins in a couple of weeks.
The Cincinnati Bengals must sign these three free agents at all costs in 2026
David Edwards, G
Cordell Volson and Dalton Risner are both free agents this offseason, so the Bengals should look to fill at least one of those guard spots in free agency. Dylan Fairchild played rather well for Cincy in his rookie season, so he could be a nice piece on the interior.
However, it would be wise to splurge a bit for one of the top guards on the free agency market. David Edwards only turns 29 years old this offseason and has been a full-time starter for the Los Angeles Rams and Buffalo Bills.
Edwards has started 32 games the past two seasons and has really revived his career during this time. He played in just four games in 2022 and was not a starter in 2023. Edwards is going to cash in big-time on the open market, and with Bufflalo being in a tight cap situation, Edwards might not at all be a priority.
Dre'Mont Jones, EDGE
Dre'Mont Jones has had an interesting career but did just come off a seeason where he played in 18 regular season games. Drafted by the Denver Broncos back in 2019, Jones spend the first four years of his career there before signing with the Seattle Seahawks.
After two OK years with Seattle, Jones signed with the Titans for 2025 and racked up 4.5 sacks, five tackles for loss, and nine quarterback hits for Tennessee in nine games. He was then traded to the Baltimore Ravens and played in another nine regular season games, racking up 2.5 sacks, two tackles for loss, and 15 quarterback hits.
Jones has been a 3-4 defensive end and an outside linebacker, so he does have some schmatic versatility. Jones brings a high-floor to the Bengals defensive line room and is going to give you about five sacks and 15 quarterback hits per season.
That is absolutely something Cincinnati should sign up for across a short-term deal.
Coby Bryant, S
A fourth-round gem by the Seattle Seahawks, Coby Bryant is set to hit the open market after a four-interception, 66-tackle season in 2025. Bryant also added seven passes defended and four tackles for loss.
According to PFF's data, Bryant allowed a stellar 78.4 passer rating when in coverage this year. The Bengals could lose Geno Stone in free agency this year, and it probably isn't likely he returns given the year he had.
Cincinnati can afford to also splurge at safety. The Bengals secondary has seemingly always had good, young talent, but it's never really all come together. Adding a quality veteran like Bryant would give the Bengals a sure-fire solution on the backend of the defense.
When you look at the urgency of the Bengals situation, this team really has to quit messing around and bring in some legitimate help in the free agency market.