Every NFL season brings surprises, heartbreaks, and moments of magic. And if you’re a Cincinnati Bengals fan, you’re probably asking one big question right now — Are the Bengals in the playoffs? The answer depends on a few key factors like the team’s current record, AFC standings, and the outcomes of the final weeks of the regular season.
This article breaks down the Bengals’ playoff situation for the 2025 NFL season. We’ll look at where they stand, what needs to happen for them to clinch a spot, and what fans can expect next.
The 2025 season hasn’t been the smoothest for Cincinnati. After two consecutive playoff appearances in recent years, including a Super Bowl run in 2021, expectations were high. But key injuries, inconsistent performances, and a tough AFC North schedule have made this season a real test.
As of now, the Bengals are hovering around the .500 mark, making their playoff path more challenging but not impossible. They’ve had flashes of brilliance, especially when quarterback Joe Burrow and the offense are firing on all cylinders. But defensive struggles and a few close losses have made every game count in the playoff race.
To answer “Are the Bengals in the playoffs?” we need to look at the latest AFC standings. The AFC has been highly competitive this season. Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Baltimore Ravens are leading their divisions, while others are in the thick of the wild card hunt.
The Bengals are currently battling for a wild card spot, as they trail the Ravens in the AFC North. They’re competing closely with teams like the Jets, Steelers, Texans, and Chargers. One or two wins or losses by any of these teams could shift everything.
Historically, 10 wins often secure a wild card berth in the AFC. At their current pace, the Bengals may need to win their remaining games or at least finish the season with a 9–8 or 10–7 record to have a real shot.
Of course, tiebreakers based on head-to-head matchups and conference records will play a big role, so every remaining game carries weight.
Even through adversity, some Bengals players have stepped up:
Joe Burrow – Despite dealing with a lingering injury earlier in the season, he’s shown leadership and resilience. When he’s in rhythm, Cincinnati can beat anyone.
Ja’Marr Chase – The star wideout continues to deliver big plays, helping keep the offense dangerous.
Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd – Both have had solid contributions when healthy.
Logan Wilson and the Defense – The linebacker unit has shown flashes, though the defense has been inconsistent overall.
Injuries on both sides of the ball have affected chemistry and momentum. Still, the Bengals have the talent to make a late push.
The Bengals’ remaining games will determine their postseason fate. Their schedule includes a mix of division matchups and crucial games against fellow wild card contenders.
Games to watch:
Winning against division rivals like the Steelers and Browns will be essential. Not only would these be statement wins, but they would also boost the Bengals’ positioning through tiebreakers.
If you’re still wondering are the Bengals in the playoffs, here’s a checklist of what needs to happen:
The Bengals have been in must-win situations before. With Joe Burrow under center and playmakers all around, they have the tools to finish strong.
Missing the playoffs would be a setback, especially after a few strong years. But it wouldn’t be the end of the road. The team has a young core, a franchise quarterback, and a head coach in Zac Taylor who’s already taken them to a Super Bowl.
If they fall short, the front office will need to focus on areas like:
A playoff miss would sting, but it would also be a chance to retool and come back stronger in 2026.
Bengals fans are known for their loyalty, and they’ve stood by the team through thick and thin. While some frustration is visible on social media, the hope of a late-season playoff push keeps the energy high.
Cincinnati’s fan base still fills Paycor Stadium and travels well. Win or lose, there’s optimism that the team’s window is still open. The future is bright as long as key players stay healthy and the coaching staff makes the right adjustments.
This isn’t the first time the Bengals have had to claw their way into playoff contention late in the season. In 2021, they surprised the league with a late run all the way to the Super Bowl. In 2022 and 2023, they made solid playoff appearances but were stopped short of a return to the big game.
Compared to past years, the 2025 campaign feels more uncertain. Still, with the NFL’s expanded playoff format allowing 7 teams per conference, the door is still open.
As of now, the Bengals are not officially in the playoffs, but they are still in the hunt. With a strong finish and some help from other teams, Cincinnati can grab a wild card spot and keep their playoff hopes alive.
Fans should stay tuned to weekly standings updates and root for the team to close strong. Every game matters, and every snap could tilt the season one way or another.
The Bengals are still very much in the playoff conversation. While nothing is guaranteed, the road to the postseason is wide open if they finish strong. The team has the talent, the leadership, and the experience to make another run.
So, are the Bengals in the playoffs yet? Not quite. But if they take care of business down the stretch, they just might be soon.
Stay hopeful, Cincinnati. The fight isn’t over.
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