July 7, 2025

Every NFL team’s biggest need entering Week 16: How Bengals replace a big piece of their defense

Cincinnati Bengals News | Cincinnati Bengals - Bengals.com

At this point in the season, no one is healthy. There have been more injuries to starting quarterbacks this season than years prior, which puts stress on teams to find other ways to arrive at victory.

Some of the notable names added to injured reserve this week include Bengals defensive tackle D.J. Reader, Chiefs wide receiver Skyy Moore and Patriots offensive guard Cole Strange.

With that in mind, here is a look at the most pressing positional needs for every NFL team:

The Bengals are allowing 254.3 passing yards per game, which is sixth-most in the NFL. They put a lot of faith in a young cornerback room that has understandably seen its share of ups-and-downs this season. Cam Taylor-Britt was added to the injured reserve Dec. 4.

The franchise has invested significant resources into the offensive line over the past two offseasons, but still have positions to fill. The unit has not played up to expectations as it is allowing pressure, on average, in 2.39 seconds, according to TruMedia; the fifth-worst margin in the league.

Cincinnati added defensive tackle D.J. Reader to the injured reserve this week. Zach Carter will see more repetitions alongside B.J. Hill with Reader out.

Cincinnati Bengals v Jacksonville Jaguars

Cornerback Tre’Davious White is done for the season with an Achilles injury. Kaiir Elam was added to injured reserve on Nov. 2 with an ankle injury. The Bills acquired Rasul Douglas from Green Bay at the trade deadline and he has played well. Christian Benford and Taron Johnson round out the Bills’ secondary. Since arriving in Orchard Park, Douglas has allowed 29.5 passing yards per game, according to TruMedia.

The backbone of Buffalo’s defense has been a concern. Defensive tackle DaQuan Jones and linebacker Matt Milano are on the injured reserve. Defensive tackle Ed Oliver has been slowed down by injury as well. Terrel Bernard, Tyrel Dodson and Dorian Williams have been asked to grow up in a hurry as the team attempts to fill a need at the position.

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