The Cincinnati Bengals are picking at No. 10, and they have clear needs to prioritise positions like cornerback and linebacker, among others. But this decision may not just be about talent. For Cincinnati, that could mean looking at positions that offer long-term financial advantage.

Some teams now use contract value as a tiebreaker in the draft. Like, which positions get paid more later, or which contracts are more valuable? Because of that, they sometimes pick positions like wide receiver or edge rusher even if those aren’t their biggest needs.

The Bengals could follow a similar approach at No. 10. With multiple gaps still on the roster, especially on defense, they may not lock in on one position. The focus could shift toward taking a high-value position if the right player is there.

When it comes to Cincinnati, this approach is not new. In two of the last three drafts, the Bengals used first-round picks on defensive ends. Myles Murphy and Shemar Stewart were both added with long-term upside in mind, though neither has fully delivered yet.

Picked in 2023, Murphy started 10 games in 2025 out of the 17 games and came up with 92 solo tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and only four passes defended. On the other hand, Stewart only defended one pass last season after starting for five games.

Still, the financial side explains those moves. Drafting a pass rusher on a rookie deal is much cheaper than paying one in free agency. Even with Trey Hendrickson, money has stayed part of the discussion around his future.

He was particular about not playing for the Bengals without a new contract. But they refused to tie themselves financially to a player over the age of 30.

According to Over The Cap, edge rushers are still among the highest-paid positions. For example, Micah Parsons is the highest-paid edge rusher in the league, earning $46.5 million per year.

They ranked near the top in franchise tag value this offseason and are expected to stay there in 2027 as well.

Money vs. talent dilemma for Cincinnati Bengals

According to Over The Cap, the biggest shift is that the offensive line could become the second-most valuable position by 2027, right behind quarterback.

The problem? This draft class isn’t very strong at offensive line, so even if the Bengals want to get ahead of that rising cost, they may not find the right player worth taking at No. 10.

On the other hand, positions like running back are expected to see only small increases in salary value. That actually makes drafting a top running back, like Jeremiyah Love, less risky financially. The Bengals could afford to give him a huge contract later without it hurting their salary cap as much compared to other positions.

But, Love lasting to the 10th pick feels unlikely, so the Bengals might have to make a bold move up the board to snag him.

For Cincinnati, this call is not that simple. They can follow the trend and target a high-value position, or they can take a player who helps right away.

What do you think will be the right path for Cincinnati? Share your thoughts.

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Written by

Anjali Thakur

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar