The Cincinnati Bengals have officially claimed the title of offseason champions, according to New York Post analyst Adam Schein. After a busy and unconventional few months, the team has finally delivered on long-standing fan requests—and the schedule release only reinforces their momentum.

Schein, host of the "Schein Time" podcast, didn't hold back: "I've been in love all off-season. But I think the big winner after NFL schedule release… The 2026 Cincinnati Bengals." While he kept his praise brief, other analysts have dug deeper into why the Bengals are poised for a breakout year.

Fox Sports' Ralph Vacchiano highlighted the team's recent struggles with injuries and slow starts, particularly for star quarterback Joe Burrow. With Burrow now healthy, the Bengals are set up for a strong opening stretch. Vacchiano pointed to "semi-easy wins" against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Miami Dolphins in the first five games—a manageable start that could build crucial early-season confidence.

But the real excitement comes later. "From Week 8 on, the magic occurs," Vacchiano noted. Over the final 12 games, the Bengals face only two teams projected to finish above .500: the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens, both at home in December. Adding to the advantage, Cincinnati's first seven games are all 1 p.m. Sunday kickoffs, reducing travel and schedule disruptions.

Other analysts have echoed the optimism. Steve Palazzolo and Sam Monson recently named the Bengals among the offseason's biggest winners, praising their aggressive moves to shore up the defensive line. With a healthy Burrow, a favorable schedule, and a revamped roster, the Bengals are looking like serious contenders—and the perfect team to rally behind this season.