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After 6-11, Duke Tobin Sets Bengals' Offseason Course Focused on Defense

He pledged accountability, putting Burrow in personnel talks as Cincinnati seeks leaders on defense.

Overview

  • Owner Mike Brown confirmed Tobin and head coach Zac Taylor will return for 2026 after a third straight season without a playoff berth.
  • In a rare season-ending briefing, Tobin said "it's on me" and prioritized adding defensive leadership along with the ability to pressure with four rushers.
  • The defense ranked 31st overall and last against the run in 2025, a slide compounded by pass rusher Trey Hendrickson missing 10 games.
  • Tobin said he does not expect major changes to the coaching or scouting staffs as draft work ramps up, with the No. 10 pick and meaningful cap space available.
  • Joe Burrow will be included in offseason roster discussions, with health protection remaining a parallel focus after he missed nine games.