The Cincinnati Bengals have endured a little bit of everything in 2025. Injuries to stars, ridiculous one-possession losses and myriad other issues have led to a 3-8 season.
However, one constant for the Bengals (and oddly enough on a struggling defense) has been third-year cornerback, DJ Turner II. The former 2023 second-round pick is starting to raise hopes of becoming a shutdown corner in that crucial third season.
Turner, aka Juandrago, has faced stiff competition this season and is looking like a cornerstone for the team as they look to reload for the unfortunate 2026 season. Although he doesn’t have flashy interception numbers so far (two in 2025), he has been a problem for opposing quarterbacks and wide receivers.
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He has gone on to move on twice with success against big names like DK Metcalf, Jerry Jeudy, Rome Odunze, Justin Jefferson and many more. The Bengals’ collective unit has not supported Turner’s individual efforts.
Unfortunately, the epic defensive collapse and his overall position in the league rankings are not indicative of a quality season from Turner. The Bengals are 28th in passer rating, 32nd in touchdown passes, 30th in passing yards and last in pass completions of 20-plus yards in 2025.
With offseason questions facing Trey Hendrickson, Cam Taylor-Britt and others, Turner will likely be the offseason priority for a contract extension. His rookie deal is set to expire after the 2026 season, and his cap hit is less than $2 million next year.
In a year full of frustration, disappointment and bad luck, it’s great to see Turner playing well at a crucial point in his career. If the Bengals continue to move forward under Al Golden and add other key pieces this offseason, Turner could be in the Pro Bowl conversation for years to come.
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