The 2026 NFL Draft is around the corner, and teams are not only gearing up for that big weekend, but also for their offseason workout programs. The Cincinnati Bengals will begin their program shortly before the festivities in Pittsburgh and continue through June.
Bengals players’ first day of reporting is Monday, April 20, with the draft commencing on Thursday, April 23. Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and mandatory minicamp will follow throughout the month of June.
NFL offseason workout programs are structured, voluntary nine-week, three-phase programs designed to improve strength, conditioning, and player technique while preparing for the upcoming season. The program focuses on rehabilitation, weight training, position-specific drills, and team walkthroughs, concluding with on-field OTAs and a mandatory minicamp.
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The Bengals are set to commence their OTAs from June 1–3 and June 9–11. Mandatory minicamp for Cincinnati is scheduled for June 16–18.
Mandatory minicamp is a three-day, June-based, Phase Three offseason training session for NFL players. It focuses on playbook implementation, on-field drills, and team chemistry before the long summer break. It is distinct from voluntary OTAs, as absences can result in fines totaling over $100,000 if unexcused.
The incoming class of rookies will also be part of these workouts once the dust settles, provided they sign their contracts. Last year, first-round pick Shemar Stewart missed mandatory minicamp and the start of training camp because of a contract dispute.
Each club may hold a rookie football development program for a period of seven weeks, which in 2026 may begin on May 11. During this period, no activities may be held on weekends, with the exception of one post-draft rookie minicamp, which may be conducted on either the first or second weekend following the draft.
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After the 2026 NFL Draft, the league will release its schedule, which is tentatively set for mid-May.
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