PFR Originals: Bengals, RBs, Mayfield, Steelers, Fifth-Year Options

Here is a quick rundown of PFR’s recent original content:

• Connor Byrne polled readers on the outlook for the Bengals in 2026. This offseason has been marked by a number of defensive additions, and improved play on that side of the ball is expected. On the other hand, Zac Taylor‘s team has missed the playoffs for three straight years and Joe Burrow‘s health is always a question mark. Cincinnati went 9-8 for two straight years before dropping to 6-11 last year. PFR’s readers are essentially in an even split on the question of whether or not the Bengals can reach double-digit wins in 2026.
• The running back position has long seen a stagnant financial market compared to several others. In an illustration of that reality, Sam Robinson listed the most lucrative non-rookie pacts in each franchise’s history at the RB spot. The group covered in that breakdown spans four different decades, indicating how many teams have avoided big-money free agent deals over an extended period. The financial landscape at other positions (such as quarterback, receiver, edge rusher and defensive tackle) have continued to surge with the NFL’s salary cap consistently rising. Running backs, by contrast, have faced a much different reality. That is likely to remain the case moving forward.
• Over the course of his three years with the Buccaneers, Baker Mayfield has established himself as a QB1 the team aims to keep in the fold for years to come. With an extension widely expected to be finalized in the near future, I asked readers whether or not they agree that Tampa Bay should make another big-money commitment to the two-time Pro Bowler. Most of Mayfield’s best performances have come with the Bucs, but he is 31 and the team has managed only one playoff victory with him leading the way. One season remains on Mayfield’s current deal, and a new one will require a raise. The Buccaneers are faced with the possibility of having the former No. 1 pick play out the 2026 campaign and explore successions options next spring or making a lucrative commitment (presumably) before training camp begins.
• Aaron Rodgers is back in place with the Steelers, and shortly after finalizing his new contract he stated the coming season will be his last. Pittsburgh is in an interesting position, and Connor polled readers about the team’s ceiling during Year 2 of its Rodgers partnership. A small minority believe improvement from 2025’s 10-7 showing will be in store. A larger group predicts another campaign featuring nine or 10 wins is likely, while 47% of voters see the Steeler regressing to eight wins or fewer. That would break the team’s streak of non-losing seasons which ran throughout former head coach Mike Tomlin‘s 19-year tenure.
• The beginning of May marked the deadline for teams around the league to decide on the fifth-year options of 2023 draftees, and Sam kept track of each call made. Of the 32 first-rounders from that year, 22 had their options exercised; they are on the books through at least 2027 as a result. The remaining players are now on course for free agency next spring, largely speaking. An exception has already emerged in the form of Jack Campbell and the Lions. Detroit declined Campbell’s option but has since signed him to a four-year extension.