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NFL·BREAKING·November 5, 2026 07:04 AM ET

Bengals evaluate trade market for Taylor, Downs ahead of Nov. 10 deadline

Cincinnati holds a 5-2 record entering Week 9 in Madrid.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 38m2 min read
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What happened: The Cincinnati Bengals are exploring trade options ahead of the Nov. 10 deadline to reinforce their roster for a playoff push. Target candidates across the league include Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor and receiver Josh Downs, alongside defensive backs Amani Hooker and Amik Robertson. Cincinnati previously sent the No. 10 overall selection to the New York Giants to acquire defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence.

Why it matters: At 5-2, Cincinnati remains in contention for the AFC North title but faces offensive balance concerns where they must establish the run to maintain their division lead. Defensive backfield injuries have also mounted, with safeties Bryan Cook and Kyle Dugger sidelined and Andrei Iosivas placed on injured reserve. Adding Taylor would provide backfield punch alongside Joe Burrow, while secondary depth would stabilize coverage against pass-heavy opponents.

By the numbers: Hooker has tallied 52 tackles and 5 interceptions through 7 games in 2026. Robertson has recorded 46 tackles in 7 games for Washington, while Downs has aligned inside on over 74 percent of his career snaps.

What to watch: The Bengals face the Atlanta Falcons in Madrid in Week 9 before the NFL trade deadline passes on Nov. 10 at 4 p.m. ET.

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