The Cincinnati Bengals are already searching for Trey Hendrickson's replacement. Miami defensive end Rueben Bain Jr. is visiting the team's facility, according to reports. This is one of several high-profile visits as the team prepares for the upcoming NFL Draft.

Now, the Bengals have turned their attention to Rueben Bain Jr., as Ian Rapoport reported on X that Bain is currently at the team’s facility for an official visit.

“#Miami edge Rueben Bain Jr., fresh off a visit with the #Chiefs yesterday, is visiting with the #Bengals today, source said. Cincy picks 10th,” Rapoport wrote on X.

At 6’2”, 263 pounds, Bain is widely projected as a top-10 pick in the NFL Draft, despite having a 30⅞-inch arm length that falls below typical NFL standards for his position.

He has tallied 20.5 sacks across three seasons with the Hurricanes, including 9.5 last year, along with one forced fumble and one interception. He delivered that production after bouncing back from a calf injury suffered on the opening drive of Miami’s 41–17 win over Florida in 2024.

He also earned the Ted Hendricks Award and was named ACC Defensive Player of the Year for his standout performance.

On April 9, he visited the Kansas City Chiefs, who hold the No. 9 overall pick in this month’s draft.

He then visited the Cincinnati Bengals, who had already lined up multiple top-30 visits with prospects such as Peter Woods, Sonny Styles, Jake Golday, and Romello Height, among others.

Following his visit, a potential move to the Bengals could benefit both sides. Bain would have the opportunity to develop under a promising Boye Mafe, whom the Bengals recently signed, while the team strengthens its defensive depth after parting ways with Trey Hendrickson.

However, another notable visit following Rueben Bain Jr. is Akheem Mesidor, which could influence the team’s decision.

Cincinnati Bengals' Decision on Akheem Mesidor or Rueben Bain Jr.

The Cincinnati Bengals have been actively bolstering their defense following Trey Hendrickson’s departure, including the addition of veteran defensive players.

With the 10th overall pick in the first round, the Bengals are also hosting Akheem Mesidor for a top-30 visit, according to Tom Pelissero.

“A big day of visits with defensive players for the Bengals, who also hosted Ohio State LB Sonny Styles and CB Lorenzo Styles Jr. and Miami edge Akheem Mesidor,” he wrote on X.

Both Bain and Mesidor played for the Miami Hurricanes football last season. Mesidor recorded 63 tackles, including 38 solo, along with 17.5 tackles for loss and 12.5 sacks, surpassing Bain’s 9.5 sacks, marking a strong jump from his 2024 numbers of 32 tackles and 5.5 sacks.

It appears the Bengals are only carefully weighing their options to avoid missing out on top talent, and ultimately, only they know what’s best for the team.

Read more at the Cincinnati Bengals Community!

Written by

Monika Khatai

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote