Bengals’ breakout player for the 2026 season may have already broken out, making a big decision even more important
It’s one thing to break out. It’s another thing to reach the top of your game. That’s what could be in store for Cincinnati Bengals cornerback DJ Turner II.
It’s one thing to break out. It’s another thing to reach the top of your game. That’s what could be in store for Cincinnati Bengals cornerback DJ Turner II.
Turner put himself on the map in 2025. His recognition for elevating himself as a high-quality CB, unfortunately, was minimal on a bad defense and losing team. It was also his first year as a full-time starter as he still played 60% of the snaps in the lone game he didn’t start back in Week 1.
He could find another level of his game in 2026, and The 33rd Team’s Steve Palazzolo sees the vision.
Bengals CB DJ Turner II on track for a larger breakout
Turner produced at a high level last year. He did so despite the Bengals having a bottom-tier pass rush and run defense. All the tools are already in his toolbox, and Palazzolo believes he’ll look even better this coming season.
“You can make the argument that last year was the breakout for DJ Turner. He’s about to get paid. And I think his camp might be making arguments that he’s that he should be making top-five cornerback money,” Palazzolo said during a recent episode of Check The Mic. “His speed and acceleration at the catch point. There’s plays where it looks like he might be out a step and he just breaks on it. He’s very aggressive getting after the ball at the catch point, but he’s got the athleticism that’s finally like tuned to take those chances. I think Turner has a chance to become not just very good, but a star, a star corner, paid as a top-five type of corner.”
Turner proved himself as a building block for Cincinnati’s defense. The main goal of the offseason was to ensure enough talent is placed around him so his abilities can shine brighter.
Additions such as nose tackle Dexter Lawrence are getting all the attention. Turner’s further ascension can’t be discounted as a reason for the Bengals improving.
“When we look back at the Bengals, who I’m going to be optimistic about again, Dexter Lawrence coming in, but DJ Turner is going to be a big part of that optimism as well.”
Bengals need to prioritize Turner’s contract extension
Palazzola’s certainly buying the hype by labeling Turner a potential top-five player at his position. Those guys do not come cheap.
It’s all the more reason why Cincy figuring out an extension for the 25-year old this offseason is imperative.
If Turner does find another gear and not only avoids regressing, but progresses into a true Pro Bowl player, he’s going to be significantly harder to re-sign next offseason.
Joe Burrow’s partial contract restructure has made it easier to fit in new money for Turner this year. He’s very likely the top priority to take care of before the season begins. Should he begin the year without a new deal, he’s got a good chance of proving why he needs a bag now.