Bengals called worst landing spot for best defensive player in 2026 NFL Draft

This offseason, the Cincinnati Bengals have their work cut out for them. In an effort not to waste the prime of Joe Burrow, Tee Higgins, and Ja'Marr Chase, the Bengals need to upgrade the defense.

Pass rusher is a big need, as are cornerback and linebacker. But the safety room is also in dire need of help, and the Bengals could turn to the 2026 NFL Draft for their new safety.

But, according to Kritsopher Knox of Bleacher Report, the Bengals are the worst possible landing spot for not just the top safety in this class, but maybe the best defender overall.

Ohio State's Caleb Downs would be a great pick for the Bengals, but Knox believes it's the worst landing spot for Downs in the draft.

Bengals are called worst landing spot for Caleb Downs

"Ohio State safety Caleb Downs is the top-ranked prospect at any position in this year's draft," Knox writes. "... Downs might put up strong numbers in a talent-starved Cincinnati defense, but he'd probably also have to wait five or more years before seeing a second contract."

Knox calling the Bengals the worst landing spot for Downs isn't due to the fit on defense. Downs would be an instant starter for the Bengals and would likely have some strong years for their defense.

But the main issue Knox sees with Downs going to the Bengals is his future beyond his rookie contract. While Downs might be the best player in this draft class and could have some incredible seasons, the Bengals might not extend him right away.

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They've let Jessie Bates III walk, and are about to let Trey Hendrickson out the door as well. Cincinnati hasn't been spending on the defensive side of the ball, even if the players are good.

That is Knox's biggest issue with Downs going to the Bengals. Not for the on-field fit, but rather for Downs' future in the NFL beyond his rookie contract.

His biggest issue is if he proves he's a star in the league, as his college production indicates, then he might not cash in if he's drafted by the Bengals compared to other teams that aren't afraid of long-term extensions to defensive players.

It's an odd reason for the Bengals to be called Downs' worst landing spot, but considering how good he is, and how almost every team would love to have him, there isn't a bad landing spot based on scheme fit defensively.

More Bengals news:

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• Bengals get good news amid $50 million contract projection for Trey Hendrickson
• We now know if Joe Burrow is happy with Bengals
• Bengals get great news on possible Chase Brown contract extension
• Bengals young breakout CB D.J. Turner gets $41 million contract projection
• Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins make Bengals Pro Bowl history for first time since 2007