Bengals defense in trouble after losing bidding war for All-Pro linebacker

The Cincinnati Bengals could win the Super Bowl if they only had to play offense.

Unfortunately for Zac Taylor and company, there is another side of the ball. 

The Bengals' defensive struggles are well-documented. Despite having Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins on offense, Cincy hasn't made it to the playoffs since 2022. 

The Bengals have ranked bottom 10 in yards allowed per game every year since 2022. They've parted ways with last year's sack leader in Trey Hendrickson. If that wasn't enough to damper spirits in the Queen City, more bad news has arrived late in the NFL offseason. 

Bengals lose out on All-Pro linebacker, Jordyn Brooks

Cincinnati has needs all over its defense but linebacker is where it all starts. 

The Bengals had a serious tackling issue last year. Jordyn Brooks, who played for Miami last season, led the league in tackles with 183. He was earned a spot on first-team All-Pro and in the Pro Bowl. 

What Brooks also earned was a big payday. The former first round pick was set to be an unrestricted free agent next season. Miami was at a crossroads: Pay Brooks now or risk losing out on him when he hit the open market. 

The Dolphins reportedly got a lot of calls about trades for Brooks. Bengals fans theorized (or hoped) that their team was one of the potential suitors. With Cincinnati's needs on defense, Brooks would be a perfect fit. 

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Much to the chagrin of Bengals fans, Brooks was signed to a 3-year, $51.3 million dollar deal. It was reported on Tuesday by Jordan Schultz. 

Cincy's faithful were in the comments of his post, mourning what could've been.

Thank you for at least trying bengals 🫩

Schultz was one of them Cinci?

Schultz reported that Miami received "numerous phone calls" regarding Brooks but had no interest. 

The Dolphins will move forward with a pillar of their defense. The Bengals will move forward with more questions about how they can improve on that side of the ball. 

After allowing the most TD's in the league (60) and second-most yards (380 per game), Cincinnati will have to hope for better days this season.  

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