The Bengals entered 2026 with plenty of questions surrounding their revamped defense. Two games later, Cincinnati has provided some convincing answers, and that has changed how people view the team. Three-time Super Bowl-winning coach Eric Mangini is now expressing greater trust in Joe Burrow and the Bengals.

Mangini highlighted Cincinnati's defensive overhaul during an appearance on FS1's First Things First. The Bengals have started 2-0, while their defense has allowed just 33 points and recorded a league-leading number of sacks.

Mangini admitted his trust in Cincinnati has “improved dramatically” after initially questioning whether the defensive additions would work. He specifically pointed toward the impact of players like Dexter Lawrence and Jonathan Allen.

“I didn't know whether or not the massive amount of moves that they made defensively was going to pay off in a substantial way. But now through two games, they're top 10 in points allowed, and they're number one in sacks.”

He also pointed out that Cincinnati's defense has started producing at a level the team has not traditionally relied upon. That has made the Bengals more dangerous because the offense no longer carries the entire burden.

The early transformation gives Burrow and the Bengals an important foundation. However, Mangini still sees one area that could become a problem.

Joe Burrow's Protection Is a Major Concern for the Bengals

The biggest concern sits in front of Burrow. Cincinnati's quarterback has already taken six sacks through two games, including five against Houston.

That number needs to improve quickly. Burrow's injury history makes consistent pressure especially concerning, and the Bengals cannot afford to expose their franchise quarterback unnecessarily.

Burrow still managed to produce against Houston, throwing for 207 yards and two touchdowns in Cincinnati's 20-6 victory. However, the offensive line must give him more time as the competition gets tougher.

The Bengals have built a defense capable of carrying more responsibility. Now, protecting Burrow needs to become just as important.

Written by

Joseph Nithin