:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68616660/usa_today_14930253.0.jpg)
The Cincinnati Bengals wrapped up the 2020 season with a 4-11-1 record. They finished in last place in the AFC North and have the 5th pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. The team announced the day after the season that head coach Zac Taylor will be back in 2021.
The Bengals are hoping they have found their quarterback of the future. Joe Burrow impressed right out of the gate as the No. 1 overall pick, but he tore his ACL in Week 11. The hope is he’ll be back for training camp in the summer, but a knee injury is always concerning.
This offseason, Cincinnati will look to beef up an offensive line that was among the worst in the NFL. Joe Burrow can maneuver around, but even without the ACL injury, they would be looking to improve the protection. The team has a lot of holes to fill, particularly on defense, but look for a big investment in the offensive line.
2021 opponents
The Bengals will face their AFC North divisional opponents six times, half at home and half on the road. In addition, they draw matchups against all for teams from the AFC West and NFC North. The NFL is expected to add a 17th game to the regular season schedule that will feature an inter-conference matchup with a similarly placed team. The bengals would face the NFC West.
Home: Ravens, Browns, Steelers, Packers, Chiefs, Chargers, Vikings, Jaguars
Away: Ravens, Browns, Steelers, Bears, Broncos, Lions, Raiders, Jets