The Cincinnati Bengals have already made significant moves to reshape their edge-rushing group for 2026. After losing key defensive pieces in free agency, Cincinnati responded by signing former Seattle Seahawks edge rusher Boye Mafe to a three-year, $60 million deal on March 12.

Mafe arrives with strong pass-rush efficiency metrics and proven run-stopping value from Seattle’s championship-caliber defense. The Bengals also added veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Allen on a two-year contract to strengthen an interior unit that struggled in both run defense and pressure generation in 2025.

With Myles Murphy and Shemar Stewart still developing on the roster, and the No. 10 overall pick in a draft class rich in edge talent, the Bengals’ defensive unit appears to be heading in the right direction, though the group may still benefit from another proven veteran presence.

Joey Bosa is one of the most intriguing free agents available. The 30-year-old spent 2025 with the Buffalo Bills on a one-year, $12.6 million contract and appeared in 15 games, recording 29 tackles, 5.0 sacks, nine tackles for loss, and a league-leading five forced fumbles.

He also generated 47 total pressures, including 30 hurries and 12 quarterback hits.

Bosa’s résumé is difficult to overlook. Selected third overall by the Los Angeles Chargers in 2016 out of Ohio State, he won Defensive Rookie of the Year after posting 10.5 sacks and has since earned five Pro Bowl selections. Across 122 career games, he has totaled 77 sacks, 22 forced fumbles, and 372 tackles. At 6-foot-5 and 280 pounds, Bosa is no longer the energetic player he once was, but he still possesses the technique, leverage, and power that could make him a natural fit as a rotational edge defender at this stage of his career.

A player like Bosa may not be the most pressing need for Cincinnati, but it could make strategic sense under the right circumstances. Mafe projects as a potential every-down contributor, while Murphy and Stewart are long-term developmental investments. Bosa could complement that group as a situational pass-rusher, offering proven production without demanding a full snap share.

A short-term, incentive-based contract in the $8 to 12 million range could be worth it, particularly if the front office wants added insurance on the edge.

However, it is also worth noting that the San Francisco 49ers continue to be mentioned as a logical destination because of the possibility of reuniting Bosa with his brother, Nick Bosa, though the franchise has publicly tempered expectations. General manager John Lynch recently suggested financial limitations may complicate that scenario (via ESPN’s Nick Wagona). Other teams in need of pass-rush help, including contenders with playoff ambitions, could also remain in the mix if Bosa waits until after the draft to sign.