In hindsight, the Cincinnati Bengals had a rollercoaster of a 2025 NFL draft class.
Fans know about the struggles of first-round pick Shemar Stewart and linebackers Demetrius Knight and Barrett Carter.
But the Bengals also got a fantastic rookie debut from guard Dylan Fairchild, who played a key role in forming the best offensive line of the Joe Burrow era.
Zooming out, here’s a quick look at Bengals rookie grades from Pro Football Focus:
Bengals rookie grades
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Dylan Fairchild, G: 61.4
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Demetrius Knight Jr., LB: 41.4
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Barrett Carter, LB: 39.4
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Jalen Rivers, G: 30.8
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Shemar Stewart, DE: 41.0
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Tahj Brooks, RB: 48.7
Fairchild’s grade actually ranked fifth among all rookie guards. The Bengals are hoping that the effort to rebuild midseason with rookie linebackers pays off with much higher grades next year.
And Stewart, the first-rounder, had multiple injury issues after the stunted offseason, so likewise, they’re hoping the grade takes a big jump next year.
Of note on limited snaps, Howard Cross graded at a 48.3 on the defensive line and cornerback Bralyn Lux had a 73.7 on a small sample size, so they’re pieces potentially sticking around for a while.
