Sep 7, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals cornerback DJ Turner II (20) warms up before a game against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images Scott Galvin-Imagn Images

DJ Turner II Highlights Catalyst For League-Standard Playmaking This Season

Originally posted on Cincinnati Bengals on SI
By Russell Heltman | Last updated Oct 14, 2025 5:51 PM ET

DJ Tuner II has been a major diamond in the rough of the Bengals' defense so far this season. The third-year player has hit his stride on the outside, leading the NFL currently with 11 pass breakups, plus, one interception.

Turner has been one of the only high-snap defenders to play well, but it's just a good start in his eyes.

"Yeah, I mean, the game's slower for sure," Turner told the media on Tuesday. "I've done a whole bunch of work in these offseasons, and my routines and stuff like that are where it's showing off now. So, you know, I've just been growing and, like I said, just every week trying to do better."

The speedster holds a strong 71.4 Pro Football Focus grade this season, leaving him, Geno Stone, and Trey Hendrickson as the lone defensive pieces grading out well right now.

It's hard to find much other positive play on a unit getting ready to face one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history, Aaron Rodgers.

"Just no panic," Turner said about the defense's mindset. "That's the main thing, gelling together as one. And, you know, just trying to play the game this Thursday, you know, just keep it going, honestly, just staying together as the biggest thing."

Turner will get another chance to make plays on the ball Thursday at 8:15 p.m. ET against Pittsburgh.