The Bengals might want to make this happen on draft day, too.

The Cincinnati Bengals will likely pepper the defense with new additions in free agency and the draft soon. One of those problem areas is safety, where the team has been flailing without success since the departure of Jessie Bates years ago.

Here we'll try to look at and discuss the Bengals’ 2026 NFL Mock Draft roundup post-Super Bowl as draft season ramps up.

The Cincinnati Bengals have so many needs on the defensive side of the ball, but finding an upgrade over slot receiver Andrei Iosivas to pair with Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins for the next few years shouldn't be totally ignored this offseason.

Jan 2, 2026; Charlotte, NC, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs wide receiver Brenen Thompson (0) makes a opening play catch defended by Wake Forest Demon Deacons defensive back Karon Prunty (3) during the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images | Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

Caleb Downs, a top defensive prospect out of Ohio State, is viewed as an ideal pick for the Cincinnati Bengals at #10 in the NFL Draft, if he dips that far.