The Cincinnati Bengals fell just short of the playoffs in the 2024 season, ending with a 9-8 record. They aim to make necessary adjustments to return to postseason contention in 2025.
The Bengals have $47.4 million in cap space this offseason, ranking eighth in the league per Over the Cap. Along with one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks, Joe Burrow, the team also has a new defensive coordinator to help reshape their defense.
Improving protection for Burrow is essential. Burrow was sacked 48 times in 2024, with only four quarterbacks being sacked more frequently.
Russ Heltman of Sports Illustrated suggested the Bengals pursue Detroit Lions guard Kevin Zeitler in free agency to bolster their offensive line.
Zeitler had an outstanding 2024 season, earning an 86.8 PFF grade, which ranked fifth among 135 qualified guards. Having played for Cincinnati from 2012-16, Zeitler is a familiar face. Heltman shared his thoughts on a potential reunion:
“The Motor City vibes led Zeitler to an elite 86.8 PFF grade across 1,047 regular-season snaps (his best since 2014 with the Bengals, third among 2024 guards),” he wrote. “Signing the 34-year-old to a one-year deal could quickly address one of the Bengals’ key offensive weaknesses.
“Zeitler has consistently performed at a high level, with no signs of decline. PFF projects a one-year, $6.25 million deal for him.”
If both sides show interest, a Zeitler-Cincinnati reunion seems plausible. The Bengals could release Alex Cappa, who struggled at right guard in 2024, saving $8 million in cap space.
Although Zeitler will be 35 when the 2025 season begins, he remains productive. Zeitler earned his first Pro Bowl nod in 2023 and could have repeated the honor in 2024. A short-term deal could help the Bengals solidify their offensive line.
