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Cincinnati Bengals defensive performance and leadership

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2026-09-22 11:08 UTC → 2026-09-27 00:44 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The Cincinnati Bengals have begun their season with a focus on defensive leadership and performance. Early in the season, the team named defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence and safety Bryan Cook as defensive captains to provide experience to the unit, even as the organization faced uncertainty regarding contract extensions for several other players. Following these leadership appointments, the Bengals achieved a 2-0 start to the season, highlighted by a 20-6 victory over the Houston Texans. Dexter Lawrence has been a central figure in this success, earning high performance grades and helping the defense limit the Texans to 60 rushing yards and zero touchdowns. Lawrence described the defensive performance as a “pretty good statement” for the team's momentum, while analysts have characterized his presence as a game-changing acquisition. Lawrence, acquired via a franchise-record trade involving a first-round pick, has emerged as a dominant force. Through the first two games, he has earned a 91.5 PFF defensive grade, ranking as the league's highest-graded defensive lineman. Former NFL coach Rex Ryan praised the acquisition, calling Lawrence “the best defensive tackle in football.” As the Bengals prepare for an AFC North matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Lawrence remains a primary focal point. Opposing players, including Steelers guard Brock Hoffman and quarterback Aaron Rodgers, have noted his unique combination of massive size and exceptional lateral quickness. His presence has helped the Bengals rank among NFL leaders in sack and pressure percentages.

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