The Bengals have completed their draft pick signings. The team announced that they’ve inked second-round defensive end Cashius Howell to his rookie deal.
Howell put himself on the map with a strong showing at Bowling Green in 2023, and he continued that production after transferring to Texas A&M ahead of the 2024 campaign. In two seasons with the Aggies, the pass-rusher compiled 71 tackles, 15.5 sacks, and 22.5 tackles for loss. His performance in 2025 earned him a number of accolades, including an unanimous All-American nod and the SEC Defensive Player of the Year award.
After trading their first-round pick in the Dexter Lawrence deal, the Bengals made Howell their first selection when they used the 41st-overall pick on him. With Trey Hendrickson no longer on the team, Cincy will be especially dependent on their rookie in 2026. Howell will join a pass-rush corps that also features Myles Murphy, free agent acquisition Boye Mafe, and 2025 first-round pick Shemar Stewart, who disappointed as a rookie.
As mentioned, this signing means the Bengals have now agreed to deals with all seven of their draft picks. The class includes:
- Round 2, No. 41: Cashius Howell (DE, Texas A&M)
- Round 3, No. 72: Tacario Davis (CB, Washington)
- Round 4, No. 128 (from Texans via Lions and Bengals): Connor Lew (C, Auburn)
- Round 4, No. 140 (from Bengals): Colbie Young (WR, Georgia)
- Round 6, No. 189: Brian Parker II (C, Duke)
- Round 7, No. 221 (from Giants via Cowboys): Jack Endries (TE, Texas)
- Round 7, No. 226: Landon Robinson (DT, Navy)
Strangely, this year every one of the picks looks like keepers.