Bengals’ Playoff Aspirations Surge Amid Draft Position Concerns
CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Bengals have turned a corner, winning back-to-back games for the second time this season after a decisive 37-14 victory over the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday. With a current record of 6-10, the Bengals have shown resilience, boasting a 5-2 record with Joe Burrow under center.
Final Stretch Against the Browns
As the Bengals prepare to face the Cleveland Browns in Week 18, they aim to finish the season on a high note, seeking a 7-10 record and a respectable 4-2 mark within the AFC North. A third consecutive win would not only signify their longest winning streak of the season but also provide a momentum boost heading into the offseason.
Draft Implications of Recent Success
However, these back-to-back victories raise questions about the implications for the Bengals’ draft positioning. Currently, Cincinnati has slipped from holding the 9th overall pick to the 10th. Should they secure a win against the Browns, they risk falling as low as the 13th overall pick.
This potential drop is significant as the Bengals have not had a top 13 selection since 2021, when they chose wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase with the fifth overall pick. Historically, the franchise has experienced the 13th overall pick twice, in 1985 and 1998, emphasizing the rarity of such opportunities.
Current Draft Order Snapshot
As the season winds down, the NFL draft order is taking shape. Following Sunday’s games, here’s a snapshot of the top contenders for the 2026 NFL Draft:
1. Las Vegas Raiders: 2-14
2. New York Giants: 2-13
3. New York Jets: 3-13
4. Tennessee Titans: 3-13
5. Arizona Cardinals: 3-13
6. Cleveland Browns: 4-12
7. Washington Commanders: 4-12
8. New Orleans Saints: 6-10
9. Kansas City Chiefs: 6-10
10. Cincinnati Bengals: 6-10
11. Atlanta Falcons (Los Angeles Rams own the pick): 6-9
12. Miami Dolphins: 6-9
13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 7-9
As the Bengals navigate these final weeks, they must balance the desire for a strong finish with the potential long-term ramifications on their draft strategy. The stakes have never been higher, as the team looks to secure both immediate success and a promising future.
