The Cincinnati Bengals are eyeing Ohio State guard Donovan Jackson in the upcoming 2025 NFL draft, a choice that may stir debate among fans.

While many agree the Bengals must prioritize bolstering Joe Burrow's offensive line, selecting a guard in the first round is a rarity for the team. Jackson stands out as a top prospect, essential for maintaining the Bengals' offensive dynamism.

Yet, past experiences with first-round Ohio State linemen have created skepticism among fans. Despite retaining Cody Ford and acquiring Lucas Patrick, both guard positions remain areas of concern. The Bengals' approach to the draft reflects a shift in their strategy, possibly indicating they are serious about making substantial improvements in this crucial aspect of their game.

The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a significant challenge this offseason with the departure of veteran right tackle Trent Brown, who recently signed with the Houston Texans after suffering a season-ending injury in Week 3 of last year. Analysts argue that losing Brown puts added pressure on the Bengals to secure offensive line reinforcements, especially as they already need to upgrade at both guard positions. While rookie Amarius Mims showed promise during practice, the team may still consider drafting a tackle to bolster depth. Despite this setback, the Bengals have focused on retaining their critical free agents, with the loss of linebacker Akeem Davis-Gaither being another notable departure.

The Cincinnati Bengals, led by quarterback Joe Burrow, have emerged as a desirable destination for free agents looking to compete. Veteran safety Justin Simmons recently expressed his interest in joining the Bengals, highlighting their consistent competitiveness alongside other top teams like Buffalo and Philadelphia. Although the Bengals have remained quiet this offseason, their potential interest in adding a safety, particularly through the upcoming NFL draft, indicates they are not ruling out strengthening their roster.

Despite the current plan to utilize Jordan Battle and Geno Stone at safety, the Bengals are exploring options to enhance their defense. If they fail to land a premier safety in the draft, there may be a chance for a reunion with Simmons, especially as teams look to bolster their rosters post-draft. This move could provide depth and competition, ensuring the Bengals remain a top contender in the league.

The Cincinnati Bengals are actively preparing for the 2025 NFL Draft by evaluating potential offensive linemen, with a notable pre-draft meeting set up with offensive tackle Charles Grant from William & Mary. Grant, standing at 6'5" and weighing 311 pounds, is expected to be a valuable addition, possibly transitioning to guard, which remains a concern for the Bengals after their offseason moves. With Cody Ford re-signed and Lucas Patrick added, the team is still looking to solidify its offensive line, indicating a focus on competition at the position.

Alongside Grant, the Bengals have also been exploring other positions, including a high-profile pass-rusher and several running backs, showcasing their comprehensive strategy ahead of the draft. As they continue to assess talent, the Bengals aim to enhance their roster in critical areas, ensuring they remain competitive in the upcoming season.

The Cincinnati Bengals are making significant moves in preparation for the 2025 NFL Draft, focusing on talents from Ohio State. They have shown interest in several Buckeyes, including running backs expected to be drafted early and defensive lineman Ty Hamilton, who had a productive college season with 3.5 sacks and six tackles for loss. Hamilton is viewed as a solid mid-round pick for a Bengals team seeking defensive help.

Among the defensive prospects, Walter Nolen from Ole Miss stands out as a first-round candidate, reflecting the Bengals' commitment to bolstering their defensive line. Despite returning B.J. Hill and possessing promising players like Kris Jenkins Jr. and McKinnley Jackson, the Bengals' need for depth, especially after losing DJ Reader, further emphasizes their focus on enhancing their defensive front.