Latest On Bengals DE Myles Murphy

The spring saw Cincinnati make a number of investments along the defensive front, including most notably the trade acquisition of Dexter Lawrence. As Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic writes, the finances required to add – and extend – Lawrence was a key factor in Murphy’s 2027 option being declined. In May, the former No. 28 pick nevertheless indicated de fact general manager Duke Tobin expressed an interest in keeping him beyond 2026.

As such, Year 4 will be critical in Murphy’s case. Dehner notes a strong finish to the 2025 campaign was encouraging, and it helped Murphy set a new career high with 5.5 sacks on the year. If the Clemson product can take another step forward (something which should be feasible if he operates as a full-time defensive starter), a major raise will be in store. As Dehner notes, a second contract averaging $20MM or more per year could be in Murphy’s future provided 2026 goes to plan.

Of course, it would be interesting to see if that pact were to come from the Bengals or an outside suitor next spring. Alternatively, a season closer to Murphy’s first two with Cincinnati – just three sacks and four tackles for loss across 20 games – would greatly hinder his market. A step back in terms of production would obviously, as Dehner writes, make a prove-pact far more likely than a big-ticket commitment.

The Bengals’ pass rush was anchored by Trey Hendrickson from 2021-25. The four-time Pro Bowler saw his Cincinnati tenure come to an expected end this spring, though, with Joseph Ossai departing in free agency as well. Boye Mafe was added on the open market, and Cincinnati selected Cashius Howell during April’s draft. Those two newcomers will have roles to play along the edge, with the same being true of Murphy and 2025 first-rounder Shemar Stewart.

While preparing for his age-24 campaign, Murphy has offered praise for the manner in which his future has been discussed with the team. It will be interesting to see if that cordial relationship helps result in a new deal being worked out or if 2026 will prove to be his last year in Cincinnati.