The AFC North rivalry is heating up in more ways than one this offseason. After the Bengals saw Trey Hendrickson depart for the Baltimore Ravens, the tide seems to be turning—with Ravens free agents now eyeing a move to Cincinnati.

First, DeAndre Hopkins expressed interest in catching passes from Joe Burrow. Now, veteran linebacker Kyle Van Noy has publicly admitted he wouldn't mind swapping purple for stripes.

During an appearance on Kay Adams' show, Van Noy was asked about the AFC North and couldn't hide his admiration for the Bengals' star quarterback. "I will say, I did enjoy, when I was at the Pro Bowl, getting to know Joe Burrow," Van Noy shared. "Just seeing how he locked in for a flag football game and the competitive side that he has and how he turns it on."

At 35 years old, Van Noy brings a wealth of experience—though his recent Pro Football Focus ranking of 73rd among 115 edge defenders suggests he's more of a savvy veteran than a game-changer at this stage. Still, the Bengals have made no secret of their desire to add veteran linebackers to mentor younger players like Demetrius Knight and Barrett Carter.

Van Noy's versatility in both 3-4 and multiple defensive looks could make him a practical fit for Cincinnati's evolving scheme. And with the Bengals suddenly becoming a hot destination for AFC North veterans, they've got plenty of intriguing options to consider as they build toward next season.