QB Joe Burrow has some of the best targets in the league, but things will soon be changing. Tee Higgins, a big part of the offense, is entering free agency this year. While he did have a down year riddled with injuries, he is still a high-quality asset for the team. While Ja’Marr Chase has historically been Burrow’s first option, Higgins has looked impressive throughout his time as Chase’s partner. Veteran receiver, Tyler Boyd, is also an unrestricted free agent in 2024.. While Boyd doesn’t have the same youth and talent as Higgins and Chase, he has a longer tenure with Cincinnati than anyone else on the team. With wide receivers becoming an increasingly hot commodity in the NFL, Cincinnati cannot afford to keep them all. 

Looking at the backfield, they have an interesting dilemma with Joe Mixon. While Mixon is still under contract, his job is not safe. With the emergence of Chase Brown, Mixon’s value is highly reduced. With a younger and cheaper option behind him, it gives Cincinnati little reason to keep Mixon.

On the defensive side of the ball, big pieces are expected to be on the move this offseason. Nose tackle D.J. Reader has been a problem for opposing runningbacks during his tenure with the Bengals. While he’s not the flashiest of players, he is due for a big payday. His injury had a big impact on the defense in the 2023 season.

Cornerback Chidobe Awuzie is also an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Awuzie had emerged as the number one corner in 2022 until a torn ACL in week 8 but had a frustrating down year in 2023. While he did have a down year, he is a solid piece to the defense and will likely walk in free agency.

Hopefully, Cincinnati will be able to work through these decisions and build back up in 2024. With Burrow locked down, they should be just fine.