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Sunday’s depth charts reveal two teams built very differently. Cincinnati leans on established stars at quarterback and receiver, while Miami is asking a young lineup and several new starters to produce the franchise’s first victory of the season.
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Miami’s offense starts Malik Willis at quarterback, Ollie Gordon II at running back and DJ Herman at fullback. Malik Washington, Chris Bell and Jalen Tolbert lead the receiving group because Caleb Douglas is out. Greg Dulcich tops a tight end room missing injured rookie Justin Joly. The offensive line is Patrick Paul, rookie Kadyn Proctor, Aaron Brewer, Jonah Savaiinaea and Austin Jackson.
The most significant offensive change is in the backfield. De’Von Achane is on injured reserve, making Gordon the lead runner after his 100-yard game at Minnesota. Jaylen Wright is questionable with a foot injury. At receiver, Miami’s depth and explosiveness are concerns, placing additional pressure on Washington and the running game.
Miami’s defensive front features Chop Robinson, Jordan Phillips, Zach Sieler and Josh Uche. Jordyn Brooks, rookie Jacob Rodriguez and Willie Gay Jr. form the starting linebacker group. The secondary lists Jason Marshall Jr. and JuJu Brents at outside corner, Chris Johnson in the slot, Dante Trader Jr. at strong safety and Zayne Anderson at free safety. Cornerbacks Storm Duck and Reese Taylor are out, creating a major depth issue against Cincinnati’s passing attack.
Cincinnati counters with Joe Burrow at quarterback, Chase Brown at running back, Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and Dohnte Meyers at receiver, and a tight end combination led by Drew Sample and Mike Gesicki. The offensive line consists of Orlando Brown Jr., Dylan Fairchild, Ted Karras, Dalton Risner and Amarius Mims.
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The Bengals’ defense starts Myles Murphy and Boye Mafe on the edges, with Dexter Lawrence II and Jonathan Allen inside. Demetrius Knight Jr., Barrett Carter and Oren Burks lead the linebacker level. Tacario Davis and DJ Turner II are the listed outside corners, Dax Hill handles the slot, and Jordan Battle and Bryan Cook lead the safety group.
Kyle Dugger’s absence weakens Cincinnati’s safety depth, while Cook’s questionable status could force another adjustment. Miami’s larger problem is cumulative: injuries have reduced its receiving, tight end, running back, edge and cornerback depth.
The matchup’s defining contrast is clear. Cincinnati can build around Burrow and proven targets. Miami must protect Willis, lean on Gordon and prevent its depleted secondary from becoming the game’s decisive weakness.
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This story was originally published October 11, 2026 at 10:11 AM.