2 Bengals Additions Flying Under the Radar This Offseason

First the Bengals add Brian Cook, now they add a pass rusher. Boye Mafe is a Cincinnati Bengal. Everyone is talking about Dexter Lawrence. But two other Bengals additions could end up making just as much of an impact in 2026. If you love Bengals football, like, share and follow. Because these under-the-radar moves deserve a lot more attention. While Lawrence became the headline acquisition, Cincinnati quietly strengthened its defensive front by signing Boye Mafe and Jonathan Allen. Both arrived with something to prove. And both could play major roles in transforming a defense that struggled throughout 2025. Let's start with Mafe. The former Seahawks pass rusher recorded 15 combined sacks during the 2023 and 2024 seasons before seeing his production dip in 2025 after changes to Seattle's defensive scheme reduced his pass rushing opportunities. Even with the lower sack total, Advanced Analytics still rated Mafe as one of the NFL's twitchiest pass rushers. The Bengals saw those traits and signed him to a three-year, $60 million contract, believing a larger role could unlock another breakout season. Mafe has already praised Cincinnati's defensive system, saying it gives linemen the freedom to make plays. And he's eager to mentor younger edge rushers like Miles Murphy, Shamar Stewart, and Cassius Howell. Jonathan Allen brings more than production. The two-time Pro Bowler adds leadership to Cincinnati's locker room after totaling 22 sacks between 2021 and 2023. After battling a pec injury in 2024 and an unsuccessful stop in Minnesota, Allen arrives with plenty of motivation. He chose Cincinnati because he believes playing alongside Joe Burrow gives the Bengals a chance to compete deep into January. And he has emphasized that winning in the NFL often comes down to the smallest details. While Allen joins Dexter Lawrence and B.J. Hill to form one of the league's strongest defensive tackle groups, Mafe gives Cincinnati another explosive presence off the edge. If both veterans perform to their potential, the Bengals' defensive turnaround could become one of the biggest stories of the 2026 season. Which addition do you think will make the bigger impact? Let me know in the comments. And don't forget to like, share, and follow for more Bengals coverage.