Bengals Called 'Super Bowl Long Shot' After Impressive Offseason

"Cincinnati already has the bones of a Super Bowl contender, with Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins headlining the offense. They slip just under our guidelines, however, because that pesky defense -- coupled with poor injury luck -- has kept them from reaching their full potential in the Burrow era," Sullivan wrote. "When you factor in Day 2 draft additions like Texas A&M pass rusher Cashius Howell and Washington cornerback Tacario Davis, Cincinnati has effectively overhauled that side of the ball.

"And if 2025 first-round edge rusher Shemar Stewart takes a step forward in his sophomore season, they'll really be cooking with gas."

The Bengals have made plenty of additions. Plus, they're healthy heading into the spring. Obviously, the season is always going to hinge on the health of Burrow. While backup quarterback Joe Flacco should be able to help keep them competitive if Burrow is out for a short time, it's unlikely Flacco could lead the Bengals to a Super Bowl.

Why Bengals Could Win The Super Bowl

Assuming Burrow is healthy, the Bengals have a real chance to win the Super Bowl.

The Bengals only need a league-average defense to be able to compete for the Super Bowl. They've had one of the worst defenses in the league for years.

But with additions like Dexter Lawrence, Jonathan Allen, Bryan Cook, Boye Mafe, Kyle Dugger, Howell, and Davis on defense, the Bengals look to have a league-average unit at the very least.

These pieces still need to come together and work on the football field, but the upgrades are substantial in Cincinnati. They could surprise a lot of people with a Super Bowl run.

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