CINCINNATI, OHIO — Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow told reporters at a press conference that the team's offseason additions have produced the strongest roster of his tenure, citing free-agent signings and a trade for defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. "This is the most talented roster we've had since I've been here," Burrow said.

The Bengals signed safety Bryan Cook, edge rusher Boye Mafe and defensive tackle Jonathan Allen in free agency, and drafted edge Cashius Howell at No. 41 overall. Cincinnati also traded the No. 10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to the New York Giants for Lawrence.

He said the front office had taken criticism from fans, the public and the media, but that those concerns could be set aside following the moves made in free agency. He also noted that a trade of the type that brought Lawrence to Cincinnati does not happen often in the NFL.

He described a different offseason process than in previous years, saying he had more communication with the front office during free agency but was less involved in the process than in years past, and that the team did not hold its typical postseason meeting.

The roster overhaul followed a season in which the Bengals missed the playoffs for a third straight year and the defense allowed 28.9 points per game, the third-most in the NFL. Over the past three years, Cincinnati has lost seven games in which it scored 30 or more points, the most in the league over that span.

Edge rusher Trey Hendrickson signed with the Baltimore Ravens in free agency. Age, availability and overall roster construction played roles in the Bengals' decision to move on from him. Hendrickson's contract with the Ravens gave him a large deal and the opportunity to play for a contender. Burrow said he is looking forward to lining up against Hendrickson twice per season in the AFC North. "Not very surprising," he said. "I know Trey, I love Trey. I just know how he operates."

Burrow played in eight games last season due to a turf toe injury, throwing for 1,809 yards with 17 touchdowns and five interceptions. The Bengals went 5-3 in games he played and 1-8 in games he did not.

"There's no secret that the last several years didn't go the way we wanted to, and there's a lot of blame to go around for that, myself included," he said. "We have everything we need in that locker room. We just gotta go and make it happen."

He said the team's goal for the upcoming season is to win games and win a Super Bowl.