The Cincinnati Bengals and Defensive End Joseph Ossai reunited on a one-year $7 million contract. Ossai cashed in following a 2024 season for the ages. He set career marks across the board with 46 total tackles, 5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles. Will Ossai be able to build upon a strong 2024 season with the Cincinnati Bengals?
Cincinnati Bengals Offseason Outlook
Ossai returns to a Bengals defense that was miserable in 2024. A poor defensive performance led to the team parting ways with Defensive Coordinator Lou Anarumo and hiring former Notre Dame Defensive Coordinator Al Golden.
Cincinnati’s offseason moves have skewed toward their offense. They franchise tagged Wide Receiver Tee Higgins for the second consecutive season. They also re-signed Tight End Mike Gesicki. Cincinnati’s most consequential move this offseason was allowing star Defensive End Trey Hendrickson to seek a trade. He is coming off a season where he led the league in sacks.
The Bengals have many important contracts to complete this offseason. The most important one is with Wide Receiver Ja’Marr Chase. He is in line for a contract extension that should make him the highest-paid non-QB in league history.
Final Thoughts
Ossai will need to be even better in 2025 as the Cincinnati Bengals are allowing their best defensive player to walk out the door. One of the worst units in the league will not be any better next season if the team does not pour massive resources into that side of the ball.
