Bengals' Draft Class Shining in 2026

0:00On April 20th, the Bengals 2023 draft class is turning heads three years in, with five guys projected to start in 2026. They grabbed defensive in Miles Murphy in the first round at number 28 overall, but the real standout has been second round cornerback DJ. Turner II from Michigan. He's edged out everyone else in impact and value, even if Murphy's coming on strong. Turner got thrust into action as a rookie, behind injured vets, starting 12 games and bawling early before fading late. Injuries derailed him again in 2024 and kept him sideline to start 2025, but that game winning pick against the Browns in. Week one flipped the script. From there he locked down the field all season, leading the league and passes defense and shutting down top receivers weekly. Fans and analysts are buzzing about his pro-bowl level play, even on a six-win defense proof he's the cornerstone at 25 years old. Meanwhile, fifth round running back Chase Brown deserves props too. He evolved from back up to lead back, exploding mid-2024 with five straight games over 100

1:06yards from scrimmage, averaging 4.3 yards per carry. In 2025 second half, he hit 859 yards at 5.1 per pop once the line stabilized. Since and at ease eyeing extensions for both this offseason, setting up a solid core as they chase big things in 2026 draft class, delivering, when it counts, you've been listening to NFL news today, AI-powered football coverage.