The Cincinnati Bengals have struggled to build a passable offensive line for quarterbacks since the Andrew Whitworth and Kevin Zeitler days.
But that might finally be unfolding right now, which his super easy to miss given the woeful defense currently derailing the season.
Still, the proof is right there. Former first-rounder Amarius Mims has been steady at right tackle. Third-round rookie Dylan Fairchild has shown signs of being a long-term starter and fellow rookie and fifth-rounder Jalen Rivers, while not guaranteed a long-term role, has been notably better than other options.
One could argue that some of this has to do with Joe Flacco under center, as opposed to Joe Burrow. But that’s only partially true, minimally, even. The real outburst of efficiency came when the team rolled with the rookies and got veteran Dalton Risner out of a guard spot.
That’s not a knock on Risner, either. He was battling some off-field stuff after having just signed with the team. A natural upswing for the unit as the season progresses, rookies keep learning and a new offensive line coach gets going is to be expected.
The fact that the expected is actually happening is a good thing. A similar youth movement at linebacker is blowing up in the Bengals’ faces right now, for comparison.
Burrow or not, the offense will keep focusing on getting the ball out fast and the core of three younger guys will continue to keep getting important developmental reps this year, which bodes well for the future.
Talk about a silver lining, given the Bengals’ miserable history with the offensive line.
I've been very impressed with Bengals rookie LG Dylan Fairchild in pass protection over the first four weeks of the season. Legit play strength, heavy hands and good athletic ability. More than anything he looks comfortable and confident against a lot of good competition. pic.twitter.com/YoOa9lPpXo
— Brandon Thorn (@BrandonThornNFL) October 1, 2025
The Bengals young OL core of Amarius Mims, Dylan Fairchild, and Jalen Rivers allowed 0 pressures combined on 48 combined pass blocking reps in the first half against the Bears, per PFF’s initial charting.
You like to see that.
— Gridiron Grading (@GridironGrading) November 2, 2025
