As the Cincinnati Bengals gear up for the 2026 NFL season, all eyes are on Joe Burrow as he aims for MVP honors amid a crucial year for both him and head coach Zac Taylor. Following a disappointing 6-11 season in 2025, which marked their third consecutive playoff miss, the Bengals look to rebound with a healthier Burrow at the helm.

Burrow, who played only eight games last year due to injury, has captured the attention of bettors. At BetMGM, he currently stands as the +900 third-favorite for MVP, leading ticket sales at 13.9% and holding a 13.3% share of the total handle. This season, he has the chance to become the first Bengals player since Boomer Esiason in 1988 to win the award.

Key stats to note:

• Burrow has a passer rating of at least 100 with zero playoff starts over a three-season span, a unique feat.
• He has taken the most sacks in the NFL since 2020, with 242 total.
• The Bengals' defense struggled last season, allowing the most rushing yards per game at 147.1 and the third-most points at 28.9 PPG.

To improve the defensive unit, the Bengals have made significant offseason moves, including acquiring Dexter Lawrence and Jonathan Allen. These additions bolster the front line, with both players capable of pressuring the quarterback. Safety Bryan Cook also joins the team, aiming to address the secondary's tackling issues that plagued them last season.

The Bengals are projected to win 10.5 games, with a -200 odds favoring their playoff chances. However, they must start strong, with their season opener against Tampa Bay looming, as a poor start could jeopardize Taylor’s future with the team. A potential record of 10-7 might secure a wild card spot, but the pressure is on for immediate results.