Bengals Cornerback DJ Turner II Stands Out in Challenging Season

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The Cincinnati Bengals are facing a difficult 2025 season, currently holding a 3-8 record. Injuries and close losses have plagued the team, yet one player has shown promise amid the struggles: third-year cornerback DJ Turner II.

Drafted in the second round in 2023, Turner, also known as JuanDrago, is emerging as a potential standout for the Bengals. Despite his team’s defensive challenges, which rank near the bottom of the league in pass defense, Turner has shown he can compete against elite receivers.

This season, Turner has gone against top talent, including DK Metcalf, Jerry Jeudy, and Justin Jefferson, collecting two interceptions. Although he lacks eye-popping statistics, his performance has impressed many.

The Bengals’ defense ranks last or near the bottom in several categories this season, allowing 32 touchdown passes and accumulating 30th place in passing yards allowed. These stats contrast sharply with Turner’s individual success on the field.

With Turner’s rookie contract expiring after the 2026 season and a cap hit of under $2 million next year, he is becoming a priority for the Bengals as offseason considerations loom. With the current season filled with disappointments, his development offers a glimmer of hope for the team’s future.

As Cincinnati looks forward to retooling its roster, Turner could find himself in the running for a Pro Bowl selection in the coming years, should the team management focus on strengthening their defense.