On today's show, we discuss the Reds' first exhibition game vs. the Guardians tomorrow and Hunter Greene's comments to Fox19's Jeremy Rauch. Plus, we roll through some more Bengals free agent targets from The Athletic, react to Mick Cronin's viral remarks and the Miami RedHawks looking to stay undefeated tonight vs. Bowling Green.

Tomorrow, the Cincinnati Reds will kick off their 2026 spring training schedule with a Grapefruit League matchup against the Cleveland Guardians in Goodyear, Arizona. First pitch is set for 3:05 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 21 — marking the first live action of the preseason for both clubs.

This game is notable not just as an early test of pitching and lineup depth, but also because it inaugurates Reds TV, the team’s new streaming service. That platform will carry this opener (in addition to several other spring contests), giving fans a preview of new faces and returning veterans before Opening Day.

For the Guardians, spring training has also begun under interesting circumstances, as some pitchers have been dealing with legal issues off the field — most prominently the federal charges against Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz related to a pitch-rigging case that’s drawing attention as camp starts (though neither is currently active in camp).

On the Reds’ side, all eyes will also be on Hunter Greene, the team’s ace, who has recently made headlines with strong comments about media narratives over the offseason. Greene expressed frustration with certain trade rumors and suggestions about his commitment or character, flatly rejecting what he called “defamation of character.” He said that false narratives — particularly ones questioning his professionalism or decisions about injury returns — crossed a line, and that people close to him know who he really is. That sentiment has underscored his desire to stay in Cincinnati and focus on performance, despite the chatter.

Tomorrow’s game won’t count in the standings, but it will set an early tone for both clubs as they refine rotations, evaluate prospects, and begin their march toward the 2026 regular season.

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#Bengals #NFL #TheStoneShieldsShow

On today's show we discuss The Athletic's first mock draft from all of their beat writers and who they have the Bengals selecting. Plus, we break down potential Bengals free agent targets from the top 65 NFL free agents. Also, the ABS challenge system is coming to MLB on Opening Day, what will this look like and how will this impact strategy?

For the Cincinnati Bengals, targeting the right free agents could be the key to maximizing their championship window. Players like John Franklin-Myers, Kam Curl, Bryan Cook, Joey Bosa, K'Lavon Chaisson, and Dalton Risner would address critical needs on both sides of the ball.

John Franklin-Myers brings versatility and toughness along the defensive line. A disruptive interior presence with the ability to kick outside, he would fit well into a rotation that needs more consistent pass rush and run-stopping ability. His motor and scheme flexibility would complement Cincinnati’s front.

Kam Curl is a physical, instinctive defensive back who thrives near the line of scrimmage but can also hold up in coverage. His ability to play multiple roles in the secondary would give the Bengals flexibility, especially against modern spread offenses. Bryan Cook, a rangy and hard-hitting safety, would add youth and speed to the back end. His experience in high-pressure situations makes him a strong long-term investment.

On the edge, Joey Bosa would be a game-changing addition. When healthy, Bosa is one of the league’s premier pass rushers, capable of taking over games. Pairing him with Cincinnati’s existing defensive talent would create one of the most formidable fronts in the AFC. K'Lavon Chaisson offers upside as a rotational edge defender with athletic traits that defensive coaches can continue to develop.

Offensively, Dalton Risner would provide stability on the interior line. Protecting the quarterback remains a top priority, and Risner’s experience at guard would bolster pass protection and improve consistency in the run game. Together, these free agents would strengthen key areas, enhance depth, and give the Bengals the balanced roster needed to compete for a Super Bowl.

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#Bengals #NFL #TheStoneShieldsShow

On today's show, we discuss the Bengals re-signing Jalen Davis, 3 Bengals facing a make or break season in 2026, the Miami Redhawks staying undefeated after last night's win vs. UMass and Scottie Scheffler's hot start to the PGA Tour season.

The Cincinnati Bengals have officially re-signed veteran cornerback Jalen Davis, securing a reliable piece of their secondary ahead of the 2026 NFL season. Davis, who turned 30 on February 2, 2026, announced via his agency on Instagram that he has agreed to return to the Bengals on a contract extension, though the financial terms have not yet been disclosed.

Davis’ Bengals journey is one of persistence and steady growth. Originally an undrafted free agent out of Utah State, he landed on Cincinnati’s practice squad in October 2020 and gradually developed into a trusted defensive back. Over the years, he worked his way from a special teams contributor and depth player to a more prominent role in the defense. In the 2025 season, Davis saw a significant uptick in playing time: he was on the field for 270 defensive snaps — nearly the same amount he had played in his previous five seasons combined — and posted 20 tackles, one sack, two quarterback hits, and an interception.

Head cornerbacks coach Chuck Burks has spoken highly of Davis’ impact, emphasizing that his presence “goes far beyond stats” and helps elevate the play of those around him. The Bengals clearly see value in securing continuity in the secondary, particularly in the slot where Davis is expected to play a key role alongside outside corners like Dax Hill and DJ Turner II.

Re-signing Davis not only locks in a player who performed well when called upon, but also reinforces Cincinnati’s defensive depth as the team builds toward another playoff push. For fans and analysts alike, his return is a smart move — one that rewards a versatile, experienced, and resilient contributor to the Bengals’ defense.

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#Bengals #NFL #TheStoneShieldsShow

On today's show, we discuss Daniel Jeremiah's second mock draft, 3 Bengals free agent targets from ESPN, Andrew Whitworth's comments on the Bengals, NFL franchise tag window opening, new look Cincinnati Reds, Terry Francona's "It's Time" speech and Tyreek Hill's release.

Coming into the 2026 season, Elly De La Cruz is noticeably bigger and stronger. After battling through a quad injury last year that sapped some of his second-half energy, De La Cruz added about 15 pounds of muscle during the offseason, increasing his listed weight to roughly 217 lb through upper-body training and focused nutrition. That added strength aims to help him stay healthy over a full season and tap into even more power and durability than he showed in 2025, when he was among the team’s offensive leaders before the injury.

Meanwhile, Sal Stewart — one of the Reds’ breakout prospects — has taken a different physical journey. Rather than bulking up, Stewart trimmed his frame in the offseason, losing more than 25 lb while dialing in his diet and conditioning with professional guidance. He’s focused on becoming quicker and more agile, translating his athleticism to improved defensive range and offensive performance. Stewart has emphasized that this leaner, stronger build is about preparing his body for the demands of everyday big-league play.

Anchoring both of their seasons is Terry Francona’s “It’s time” message to the club. In his spring-training address — a tradition he takes seriously — Francona made clear that after an 83-win campaign and a playoff appearance, last year’s growth is just the beginning: “We might be younger than some teams… but we’ve got to go toe-to-toe. It’s time.” That phrase has become the team’s rallying motto, signaling expectation for a leap beyond postseason entry and toward true contention. Players described Francona’s speech as energizing, underscoring that the core has now matured and is ready to compete at a higher level.

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#Bengals #NFL #TheStoneShieldsShow

Reid Maus is back on Chatterbox Sports and we’re diving straight into the biggest storylines surrounding the Cincinnati Reds and Cincinnati Bengals.

With spring training underway, the Reds have a major decision looming: who earns the fifth spot in the starting rotation? We break down the upside of Chase Burns versus the consistency of Rhett Lowder and debate whether Cincinnati should prioritize ceiling or stability. Could a creative tandem approach make sense? And how do innings limits and long-term development factor into the decision?

We also analyze the impact of bringing back Eugenio Suárez on a one-year deal. Can his power transform the lineup at Great American Ball Park? How much protection does he provide for Elly De La Cruz and the young core? Plus, what should the Reds do with Tyler Stephenson if extension talks stall?

On the NFL side, we shift to the Bengals’ offseason strategy. Should Cincinnati stay committed to its offensive identity around Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins, or pivot toward defense as the league trends that direction? We debate a potential Maxx Crosby trade, the realities of a Trey Hendrickson tag-and-trade, and what the Bengals should do with the 10th overall pick in the draft.

We also discuss which NFL teams are primed for a bounce-back year and which playoff teams could regress in 2026.

Reds roster battles. Bengals roster building. Honest debate and analysis.

Subscribe for weekly Cincinnati sports coverage and in-depth breakdowns from Chatterbox Sports.

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#Bengals #Reds #RedsSpringTraining

Casey McCollister joins the show to break down a complete Cincinnati Bengals offseason blueprint — from Super Bowl takeaways to bold trade ideas, free agency targets, and NFL Draft strategy.

The conversation opens with lessons from the Seahawks’ championship run and what Cincinnati can learn about roster construction, defensive investment, and building sustainable depth. How can the Bengals maximize their Super Bowl window while paying Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins?

One of the biggest offseason questions centers on Trey Hendrickson. Should the Bengals execute a tag-and-trade? Is a blockbuster move for Maxx Crosby realistic? What would the compensation look like — and would moving the No. 10 overall pick make sense?

Free agency strategy includes:

Defensive tackle value targets and avoiding major overpays

Edge rushers who fit the Bengals’ defensive system

A deep safety market featuring Kam Curl, Nick Cross, and Bryan Cook

Veteran linebacker depth and leadership additions

The NFL Draft conversation focuses heavily on pick No. 10 and defensive prospects who could immediately elevate the roster:

Caleb Downs

Mansoor Delane

Peter Woods

Sonny Styles

Is cornerback a bigger need than expected? Should positional value outweigh immediate roster holes? Would trading back create better long-term balance and depth?

Round 2 edge options, mid-round defensive depth, and long-term offensive line planning are also analyzed in detail.

This is a comprehensive offseason strategy session for Bengals fans looking for realistic roster-building solutions.

Subscribe for more Bengals draft coverage, trade breakdowns, and offseason analysis.

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#Bengals #BengalsOffseason #BengalsRumors

The Cincinnati Bengals offseason is officially underway, and on today’s episode of The Stone Shields Show, we break down our FIRST 7-round Bengals mock draft using the PFF simulator. With the 2026 NFL Draft approaching, it’s time to take a deep dive into what Cincinnati could do at pick No. 10 and beyond.

In this full seven-round Bengals mock draft, we prioritize defense early and often. Could the Bengals land Sonny Styles in Round 1? Is edge rusher the biggest need at pick 41? We walk through every selection, including prospects like Gabe Jacas, Daylen Everette, Michael Taaffe, Pat Coogan, and more — plus the strategy and roster-building logic behind each pick. No trades in this version — just a realistic projection of how the draft board could fall.

We also break down major NFL offseason storylines, including:

Will Aaron Rodgers return to the Pittsburgh Steelers?

Is Travis Kelce considering retirement?

What’s next for Tua Tagovailoa and Kyler Murray?

Could Maxx Crosby or A.J. Brown be traded?

Which quarterbacks are rising in the 2026 NFL Draft class?

From Bengals draft needs and roster construction to NFL free agency rumors and potential blockbuster trades, this episode covers everything football fans need as draft season heats up.

Make sure to subscribe to Chatterbox Sports for more Bengals mock drafts, NFL analysis, Reds coverage, and daily sports content.

Drop your Bengals mock draft in the comments — who should Cincinnati take at No. 10?

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#Bengals #BengalsRumors #BengalsMockDraft

On today's show, we break down 3 burning questions for the Cincinnati Reds as Spring Training gets underway: Who the 5th man in the starting rotation will be, where Spencer Steer will play defensively and how Sal Stewart and Noelvi Marte will adjust to new positions. Also, we discuss Tyler Stephenson's arbitration case, some Cincinnati Bengals draft targets and whether the Bengals should go after Kenny Clark should he be cut by Dallas.

The Reds enter spring training with three compelling storylines, starting with the battle for the fifth spot in the rotation. Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, Andrew Abbott and Brady Singer appear locked into the first four jobs, leaving one opening among Brandon Williamson, Rhett Lowder, Chase Burns and Julian Aguiar. Each brings a different profile. Williamson has big-league experience but is working to reestablish consistency. Lowder, one of the organization’s top pitching prospects, offers polish and pitchability but may still be building innings. Burns arguably has the highest ceiling of the group, with swing-and-miss stuff that could force the issue if he dominates in camp. Aguiar adds depth and competitiveness, though he may need to prove he can miss enough bats against major league hitters. Performance, health, and how aggressively Cincinnati wants to promote young arms will determine the winner.

Another key question is where Spencer Steer fits defensively. Steer’s versatility has long been an asset, and that flexibility again gives the Reds options. He could see time at first base, particularly if the team prioritizes offense at corner spots, but he’s also capable in the outfield and at third base if needed. Much depends on how the rest of the infield shakes out and whether the Reds value defensive stability or lineup balance more heavily. Steer’s bat will be in the lineup — the only question is where his glove lands most often.

Finally, Sal Stewart and Noelvi Marte adjusting to new positions adds another developmental layer. Stewart is gaining experience at first base after primarily playing third, and proving he can handle the transition would open a clearer path to at-bats. Marte, meanwhile, continues adapting to an outfield role, refining reads and routes while trying to let his athleticism play. How quickly both adjust could shape Cincinnati’s roster flexibility all season.

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#Bengals #Reds #TheStoneShieldsShow