Bengals Film Room: Money well spent on the defense this year

Dale Altman argues that the Cincinnati Bengals front office deserves significant praise for their aggressive defensive investments this season. Following six games, the restructured defense is tied for first in the NFL with 21 sacks, despite having already taken their bye week. Key offseason acquisitions including Boye Mafe, Dexter Lawrence, Bryan Cook, and Jonathan Allen have transformed the unit into one of the league's most formidable fronts.

Altman highlights specific returns on investment, noting Mafe's 4.5 sacks on a three-year, $60 million deal and Lawrence's dominant campaign following a trade and a $28 million extension. In addition, Cook has stabilized the secondary on a three-year, $40 million contract, while Allen and rookie draft pick Cashius Howell have contributed immediately to the team's relentless pass rush.