Bengals Lose Hendrickson, Eyeing Top DL in Draft

0:00For the NFL, it's March 5th. Here's what's happening. The Cincinnati Bengals shocked fans by deciding not to use the franchise tag on edge russia, Trey Hendrickson, paving the way for him to leave in free. Agency. This move forces a big shift in their plans for the 2026 NFL draft, where they hold the 10th overall pick. Instead of targeting a safety or cornerback, the team now needs to grab a top defensive lineman to replace his past rush production. Hendrickson had a monster year in 2024 with 17 and a half sacks, but injury sideline him for 10 games last season, limiting him to 4 and a half sacks in just seven outings. Losing that kind of talent hurts the Bengals' defense right away, especially after a down year overall. Bengals fans and analysts see this as a mixed bag, with the immediate pain of Hendrickson's exit, tempered by a draft class stacked with edge rushers. Only eight teams pick before Cincinnati, and with the Las Vegas Raiders likely taking a quarterback first overall, prime defensive line options should still be on the board.

1:05Scouts are buzzing about standouts like Texas Tech's David Bailey, a potential top five pick and Miami's Rubin Bay in junior, who impressed in the playoffs. If either slips, it would be a steal for the Bengals at number 10. More likely targets include Miami's Akim Mesador, who racked up 12 and a half sacks last year, or Auburn's massive six foot six, Keldrick Falk. Overall, this deep class gives Cincinnati a shot at one of the draft's best defensive linemen to rebuild their front. This story is made possible by a sponsor. When you want calm, do not reach for your phone. Lay back and listen.