DJ Turner II Shines at Midway Point of 2025 NFL Season
CINCINNATI — Bengals cornerback DJ Turner II is having his best professional season and performing like one of the top 15 cornerbacks in the league. His metrics place him among the NFL’s elite defenders, ranking high in yards per coverage snap allowed and expected points added per play.
The Bengals’ defense would likely struggle more without Turner’s consistent play. He leads the league with 14 pass breakups and is tied for 13th in interceptions with two.
"Yeah, I mean, the game's slower for sure," Turner said last month. "I've done a whole bunch of work in these offseasons, and my routines and stuff like that are where it's showing off now. So, you know, I've just been growing and, like I said, just every week trying to do better."
Among 13 Bengals players who have played at least 300 defensive snaps this season, Turner is the only one with a Pro Football Focus grade above 62, posting a career-best 73.5 rating.
"Those are the guys you just want on your team," head coach Zac Taylor said of Turner. "Guys that you take a hard conversation with and not get in their feelings about it or sulk. You want players who respond, stay focused, and lift the group."
Turner aims to push the defense to another level as he enters his third NFL season after the bye week.
Author’s Summary
DJ Turner II is emerging as a top-tier cornerback in the 2025 NFL season, driving the Bengals’ defensive success with standout performances and leadership maturity.