CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Bengals officially extended Dalton Risner’s contract this week, solidifying the core of their offensive lineup for the upcoming season. Risner was previously the sole significant offensive player without a contract, but after completing a strong NFL season with the Bengals, he has now committed to the team long-term. This extension ensures the team’s offensive cohesion remains intact as they prepare to build on recent progress.
Risner’s Motivation to Stay in Cincinnati
Dalton Risner credited head coach Zac Taylor as a key influence in his decision to remain with the Bengals. Expressing gratitude for the opportunity, Risner highlighted the importance of the coaching staff, especially offensive line coach Scott Peters, as pivotal to his choice. His remarks revealed a sense of belonging and appreciation for the environment within the Cincinnati franchise.
“A big reason why I wanted to come back to Cincinnati is because of Zac Taylor,” Risner said. “I’m probably going to say a lot today that has nothing to do with the questions that you asked, but I just feel like I’m full of gratitude coming back and being with (offensive line coach) Scott Peters.”
– Dalton Risner, Bengals Guard
Early Struggles and Rapid Development This Season
Risner joined the Bengals prior to the season on a one-year contract worth $1.19 million. Although his start was challenging, he quickly established himself as the team’s top right guard by season’s end. Arriving in late August, Risner adapted swiftly to the Bengals’ offensive scheme and became a dependable presence on the line.
“A critical part of our team, critical part of our offensive line, a guy that showed up a week before the season started, yeah, first game, played over half of that game, and continued to play at a high level all season for us, and gave us a ton of confidence in our offensive line playing,”
Taylor said about Risner.
“So Dalton’s just got, not only a high talent level, but a wealth of experience brings a lot of veteran leadership to our team and our offense.”
– Zac Taylor, Bengals Head Coach
Strong Performance and Versatility on the Offensive Line
During the season, Risner played 767 snaps across both right and left guard positions, earning a career-best 69.4 grade from Pro Football Focus—the fifth-highest among Bengals players with at least 350 snaps. His experience and leadership made him an essential fixture for the Bengals, reinforcing the offensive line’s stability.
Risner expressed a clear intention to make Cincinnati his final NFL home, showing determination to stay beyond this contract. He was upfront about foregoing free agency opportunities to remain loyal to the Bengals.
“I truly didn’t mean what I said,”
Risner admitted regarding previous statements on free agency.
“I didn’t really care to hit free agency and see if someone wanted to sign me to a two or three year deal or maybe pay me more cash per year. I wanted to be a Cincinnati Bengal and it got to a point where we were so close in terms that it was time to get a deal done. So the Bengals did a lot of compromising, and I did a lot of compromising, and we came to a middle point, into a middle ground to sign the deal. And I was so thankful for that.”
– Dalton Risner, Bengals Guard
Overcoming Challenges and Regaining Confidence
Risner acknowledged the difficulties he faced early in the season, including being benched for the first time in his career, which tested his resilience. Despite the setbacks, he chose to maintain a positive attitude and focus on growth, using the experience as motivation to improve. Returning to his natural left guard position revitalized his performance and confidence.
He pinpointed two starts at left guard—against the Green Bay Packers and the Pittsburgh Steelers—as key moments that helped him regain his form and solidify his place on the team.
“Well, it certainly wasn’t after the Jacksonville game, that’s for sure,”
Risner reflected on finding his footing.
“It was an up and down year. And I say that being okay to say it, because that’s just a part of life. Life isn’t easy. Was the first time in my whole career I was benched. You have two choices in that moment, and you have to decide, okay, who am I going to be in these moments? And I think once I decided I’m still so grateful to be here, I want to be an example to my future kids. I still have a lot of football left that I know I can play.
And I think coming back, and when I got that first start at left guard against the Green Bay Packers, and I started at left guard against the Pittsburgh Steelers at home on Thursday night, and those two starts at left guard. That’s kind of the position I’m used to. That’s a position I’ve always played my career, other than these last two years, kind of kick started me and got me back to being who Dalton Risner was.”
– Dalton Risner, Bengals Guard
Implications for Bengals Season Ahead
Securing Risner’s commitment completes the Bengals’ offensive lineup continuity, allowing the team to move confidently into offseason preparations. Having a seasoned and dedicated guard like Risner is vital for protecting the quarterback and solidifying the run game. His veteran presence and leadership provide stability that can boost the Bengals’ offensive efficiency as they aim for success in the next NFL season.
Welcome back, Dalton. pic.twitter.com/O8sPDKR0HA
— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) March 2, 2026
