What happened: Cris Collinsworth stated on PFF with Jac Collinsworth that the Cincinnati Bengals have a realistic chance to contend in the conference. The assessment follows Cincinnati's road victory over the division-rival Baltimore Ravens.

Why it matters: Earlier this season, offensive line play kept the Bengals outside the AFC's top tier. The front office added tight end Cam Grandy on Tuesday and has weighed a reunion with Falcons safety Jessie Bates after injuries to Bryan Cook and Kyle Dugger thinned the secondary.

What to watch: Cincinnati approaches the Nov. 10 NFL trade deadline with 2025 first-round defensive end Shemar Stewart also drawing outside interest.