Predicting Bengals final 53-man roster reveals major improvement

Defensive Line (9): Carlos Dunlap, Geno Atkins, D.J. Reader, Sam Hubbard, Carl Lawson, Khalid Kareem, Josh Tupou, Renell Wren, Andrew Brown

The defensive line may just be the Bengals’ strongest position group. Featuring Carlos Dunlap, Geno Atkins, D.J. Reader, Sam Hubbard, and Carl Lawson, teams will struggle to stop this dangerous front.

Rookie Khalid Kareem should make the roster as a backup along with Josh Tupou, Renell Wren, and Andrew Brown. All four of these linemen will compete for playing time at one spot or another.

Linebackers (6): Germaine Pratt, Josh Bynes, Logan Wilson, Akeem Davis-Gaither, Austin Calitro, Markus Bailey

Linebacker is a position that the Bengals completely overhauled in the 2020 offseason. Adding three rookies and one veteran free agent, the defense will hopefully have a better group of linebackers than they have had in years.

I expect Germaine Pratt to be the only returning linebacker once the final roster is set. Markus Bailey could spend time on the practice squad or PUP list at first if not completely healthy. If that is the case, Jordan Evans could get one last chance.

Cornerbacks (6): William Jackson III, Trae Waynes, Mackensie Alexander, Darius Phillips, Tony Brown, LeShaun Sims

Another position that was overhauled in the offseason, cornerback should feature some heavy competition at the back of the roster. The first four spots are locks in William Jackson, Darius Phillips, and free-agent additions Trae Waynes and Mackensive Alexander. After that, it gets competitive.

The final two spots should eventually go to Tony Brown and LeShaun Sims. Brown was acquired on waivers this offseason while Sims was signed in free agency. These two players obviously piqued the Bengals’ interest and that should show come final cut time.

Safeties (4): Jessie Bates III, Vonn Bell, Shawn Williams, Brandon Wilson

With the addition of Vonn Bell in free agency, safety is a loaded group for the Bengals. Unless Shawn Williams is a surprise release, the top three at this position should be largely set in stone.

Brandon Wilson will likely take the last safety spot in large part due to his returning abilities on special teams.

Specialists (3): Clark Harris, Randy Bullock, Kevin Huber

The long snapper, kicker, and punter positions will not likely change in 2020. Clark Harris, Randy Bullock, and Kevin Huber all have relatively safe jobs this season.