A Bengals Offseason Tradition

We have a bit of an annual tradition that kicks off around this time of year. Once the first waves of free agency and the NFL Draft are in the rearview mirror, we turn our attention to identifying which Bengals players might be poised to take that all-important next step in their careers.

Spotlight Series: “Potential Bengals Breakout Players”

Here at Cincy Jungle and on our associated podcasts, we launch a recurring series each offseason titled “Potential Bengals Breakout Players.” It’s our way of forecasting which players could step into larger roles, show significant growth from the previous season, or otherwise emerge as key contributors in the upcoming year.

This isn’t just guesswork. It’s based on their likely increased responsibilities, glimpses of talent, and how they’ve been developing behind the scenes.

Introducing: “Make-or-Break Year”

Building off that tradition, we’re rolling out a new companion series: “Make-or-Break Year.” This series spotlights Bengals players who are entering pivotal stretches in their careers—those who need to prove themselves now or risk fading from the team’s long-term plans.

These are players at a crossroads. Whether it’s due to inconsistent performance, off-field concerns, or simply needing to show growth, the next few months could be career-defining.

Cordell Volson

Ever since Joe Burrow joined the Cincinnati Bengals, the offensive line has been a major focal point of criticism and questions. Cincinnati made some major moves in outside free agency over the last few years, but the guard spots have particularly come under much scrutiny.

Cincinnati used a fourth round pick on Cordell Volson in 2022 and he has since manned the left guard spot. The staff thought so highly of him that, at certain points, he was the only starter the team originally drafted to play on the line.

While he has taken steps forward in his development, the consistency still hasn’t been there. Entering the final year of his rookie deal, Volson saw the team draft Dylan Fairchild in the third round a few weeks ago, followed by comments made by coaches saying the rookie has an opportunity to win a starting job.

Gone is a major Volson advocate in offensive line coach Frank Pollack, so Volson will need to ingratiate himself with new coach Scott Peters this spring and summer. Will he take another step in his development to show consistency, or will his future with the Bengals get murky as the preseason wears on?

Background

One of the major factors that attracted the Bengals to Volson was his championship pedigree. Sure, he came from a small school, but North Dakota State is known as an NCAA Division I FCS powerhouse.

Volson played multiple positions on the Bison offensive line, making his versatility a highly coveted trait among many teams. Even with his imposing stature (6’7”, 315 pounds), teams felt he was better suited to kick inside to guard.

That was exactly the plan for Pollack and the Bengals, as Volson has now started 36 consecutive games at left guard. He beat out other promising projects and/or high draft picks, including D’Ante Smith and Jackson Carman. However, many are still waiting for him to reach the next level of consistency.

Now, as mentioned earlier, Fairchild and Lucas Patrick were brought in from the outside, while the versatile Cody Ford was re-signed to provide depth at multiple spots. All have eyes on potential starting roles, so the pressure is on Volson to impress his new position coaches and maintain his status as a starter.

Volson currently holds a 59.3 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, with a 49.4 pass-blocking grade and a 65.6 run-blocking grade. While things could certainly be worse, the team is hoping for more consistent performance from the left guard position.

What Volson Needs to Prove in 2025

Durability isn’t a concern for Volson. He’s proven to be a warrior and embodies that Pollack “Glass-Eater” mentality (whatever that means). He has delivered solid performances in run blocking. However, with Joe Burrow under center, protecting the quarterback is of paramount importance.

This is where the guards have struggled in recent years. Failures in picking up twists and stunts, as well as holding up against capable interior rushers, have plagued the Bengals’ offensive line.

Volson needs to prove to his new coaches that he can quickly adapt to new techniques. In doing so, he’ll instill confidence that he’s ready to take another critical step in his career.

His former position coach has yet to be employed, but Volson’s physicality has certainly been developed. Still, technique issues persist—and with the Bengals’ championship window open, they need the most capable players on the field.

Another factor is Volson’s contract. He’s set to make over $4 million this year. While that may not seem like a huge number, it’s a hefty price tag for a potential backup—and that’s without factoring in the ongoing Trey Hendrickson negotiations.

Volson provides value as both a starter and a backup. The question is whether the latter role, if he loses the starting job, justifies the cost.