Bengals Defense Ranked Near NFL Bottom After 2024 Struggles

The 2025 NFL season previews highlight significant challenges for several teams' receiving and defensive units. The New York Jets' wide receiver group is ranked among the league's worst, with Garrett Wilson as the lone bright spot after the release of Davante Adams, leaving questions about the supporting cast's ability to contribute. The Tennessee Titans also face criticism for their receiving corps, ranked as the third-worst in the NFL despite adding veteran Tyler Lockett and drafting promising rookie Elic Ayomanor, with concerns that the group lacks depth beyond Calvin Ridley. Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals' defense is under severe scrutiny, ranked 28th by multiple sources, due to poor run defense and ongoing contract disputes involving key players Trey Hendrickson and Shemar Stewart. Analysts emphasize that the Bengals' defense must improve substantially for the team to contend in the AFC, as their strong offense alone cannot compensate for defensive deficiencies. Overall, these assessments suggest that both receiving and defensive units will be areas of concern for these teams as they prepare for the upcoming season.