The Cincinnati Bengals are in prime position to make another Super Bowl run. Last year, the Bengals made miracles happen as they narrowly defeated three other contenders to advance to the big game, where they made a valiant effort against the Los Angeles Rams for the title. Unfortunately, the Bengals came up short in that game due to several weaknesses on the team. This year, the Bengals return most of their starters who played in Super Bowl LVI as well as some key additions that will help them continue their dominance in the NFL. Here are 5 reasons why the Bengals are Super Bowl contenders for the upcoming season.

1. Improved offensive line

If you watched any Bengals games last season, you recognized the lack of stability on the offensive line. Even in the Super Bowl, star quarterback Joe Burrow was practically running for his life every play. With the signing of three new offensive linemen – Ted Karras at the center position, Alex Cappa at right guard, and La’el Collins at right tackle – Burrow appears to be in a much better position heading into 2022. With more time for the play to develop, Burrow and his college teammate turned star Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase may be able to strengthen their connection for even more Cincinnati touchdowns.

2. Returning stars

Most of the starters from last year’s Bengals team are returning this year while other teams (like the Kansas City Chiefs) have lost key playmakers. If they could do it last year, why not again? The Bengals look as strong as ever and they may very well have the chance to make it to the Super Bowl once again.

3. Excellent wide receivers

The Bengals have one of the best wide receiver groups in the NFL today with Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Tyler Boyd all playing key roles in the offense. With all three of these receivers out on the field, it will once again be a nightmare for opposing teams to cover all of them.

4. Rookies added to the existing group

In the 2022 NFL Draft, the Bengals made key additions to their defense by drafting Daxton Hill and Cam Taylor-Britt in the first two rounds. Taylor-Britt will add vitality to the cornerback group while Daxton Hill will fill out the safety group with the potential to take over a starting role in later years.

5. Stars at every position

The Bengals undoubtedly have a strong roster with at least one excellent player in every player group. Joe Burrow leads a talented offense with centerpieces such as runningback Joe Mixon, wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, and newcomer La’el Collins. Edge rusher Trey Hendrickson and safety Jessie Bates III return to the team to continue leading the playmaking defense. Former rookie kicker sensation Evan McPherson returns for his second season after a perfect postseason, going 14/14 on field goals. This roster has formidable upside with the potential to dominate the NFL this season.

Will the Bengals go all the way and win the Super Bowl this season? One can only guess, but they certainly have a good chance, as shown by the offseason moves the Bengals made to strengthen the team. Tune in on September 11 at 1:00 PM to see the Bengals play their first regular season game of 2022 at home against the Pittsburgh Steelers!