The Cincinnati Bengals missed the playoffs, and history shows there’s a clear path to returning in 2026. Teams like the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots aggressively spent in free agency after missing the postseason, and it paid off. The Bengals are positioned to do the same, ranking among the NFL’s top teams in projected cap space. James Rapien breaks down why free agency must be the Bengals’ top priority this offseason, why Joe Burrow believes attacking free agency is “of paramount importance,” and how past Bengals playoff runs were built on impactful veteran additions. SUPPORT OUR LOCAL SPONSOR: Christian Husky of Sibcy Cline Realtors. Follow @christian.husky or visit www.sibcycline.com/chusky PRESENTED BY SLEEPER: Use promo code BENGALSTALK on Sleeper and get 100% match up to $100! https://sleeper.com/promo/BENGALSTALK. Terms and conditions apply. #sleeper