The Cincinnati Bengals already boast one of the NFL's most explosive offenses. Now, according to right tackle Amarius Mims, their offensive line is poised to maintain continuity for another season -- at least in spirit.
Mims expressed his excitement about keeping the same starting five together, emphasizing the value of continuity and chemistry for the unit's success in 2026. In comments reported by John Acree of Cincy Jungle on May 9, the second-year tackle made it clear that he relishes the idea of the Bengals' front five building on the progress they made together last season.
"Those guys, they just get it," Mims said of the group. "We're at the point where we know each other's footwork, we know each other's sets, we know how each other communicates on twists and stunts. That doesn't happen overnight. You don't want to lose that."
For a team built around quarterback Joe Burrow and the most dynamic wide receiver duo in football, the stakes couldn't be higher. If the Bengals are going to take the next step and win a Super Bowl, the offensive line has to hold up in January. And Mims clearly believes that keeping the band together is the best path to doing just that.
The Starting Five That Could Be
The Bengals have maintained much of their offensive line core this offseason. The projected starting lineup includes left tackle Orlando Brown Jr., guards Dylan Fairchild and Dalton Risner, center Ted Karras, and Mims at right tackle.
However, continuity in the NFL often faces challenges such as coaching changes, expiring contracts, and salary cap constraints. The Bengals have navigated that reality carefully this spring. Four of the five starters from the 2025 season remain, with competition at the left guard spot and some fresh depth added.
At guard, the Bengals have added Dylan Fairchild and Jalen Rivers to compete with Dalton Risner, who re-signed with the team. Karras remains the anchor at center, and Brown Jr. is back at left tackle. This quartet's return preserves much of the line's stability, with the only true question being the final starting guard.
But Mims isn't concerned about minor adjustments.
"We've got guys who can play," he said. "Teddy (Karras) runs the show. O (Brown) sets the tone. I just try to do my job. When you've got that kind of trust, you can play fast. You don't have to think, you just react."
That kind of chemistry is exactly what offensive line coaches dream about. And Mims is right -- it doesn't come without time and experience working together.
Why Continuity Matters for Joe Burrow
The Bengals experienced firsthand the consequences of a shaky offensive line. In 2023, Burrow was sacked a career-high 36 times in just 10 games before a wrist injury ended his season. The offensive line was plagued by injuries and lineup changes, disrupting the offense's rhythm.
Last season, with a healthier and more stable unit, Burrow was better protected. The Bengals finished top-five in both scoring and total yards, with Burrow throwing for over 4,500 yards and 40 touchdowns. The improvement wasn't just about individual talent--it was about how they played together.
"You start to know how the guy next to you is going to handle a blitz," Mims explained. "You know if he's going to step to the inside or the outside. You know if he needs help or if he's good. That takes reps. That takes time."
When Burrow knows that his right tackle can handle a speed rusher and his center can pick up an interior blitz, he can fully focus on reading the defense and finding receivers like Ja'Marr Chase or Tee Higgins downfield. Trust within the offensive line translates directly to opportunities for the quarterback to make plays.
The New Pieces: Fairchild and Rivers
While continuity is critical, the Bengals have injected fresh competition and talent into the guard spots.
Dylan Fairchild, one of the team's newer additions, is known for his power and aggression in the running game. Jalen Rivers offers positional versatility, providing the Bengals options to shuffle the line as needed with injuries or matchups.
Veteran guard Dalton Risner, who returned to the team this offseason, brings valuable experience and leadership. His familiarity with the Bengals' system gives him an edge in the competition for starting roles.
For Mims, this likely means stability on his right side. Karras is entrenched at center, and either Risner or Fairchild will fill the guard position to his left. The right tackle position remains firmly in Mims' control following a promising rookie season that showcased the athleticism and power that made him a first-round pick.
"I feel like I'm just scratching the surface," Mims said. "I know what it takes now. I know what the NFL is about. Year 2, you're supposed to take that jump. I plan on doing that."
What It Means for 2026
The Bengals enter the 2026 season with every reason to believe they can contend for a championship. The offense is loaded with talent. The defense, under defensive coordinator Al Golden, is young and motivated. And the offensive line--the foundation of everything--has a chance to be special.
But continuity alone doesn't guarantee success. The Bengals must prove it on the field, stay healthy, and face the tough pass rushes of AFC North rivals like the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens, as well as powerhouse units like the Kansas City Chiefs.
Mims is embracing the challenge with confidence. "We're putting in the work now," he said. "When September comes, we'll be ready."
If the offensive line stays intact and takes the next step, the rest of the NFL should take notice. When Joe Burrow has time and his offensive line shares that unique brotherly understanding, defenses have few answers.
The Bigger Picture: A Team Built to Win Now
Focusing on the offensive line is more than just evaluating a single unit--it represents the Bengals' overall organizational philosophy.
General manager Duke Tobin and the front office have made a deliberate effort to keep core players united. While navigating the salary cap forces difficult choices, the Bengals have prioritized retaining their offensive line nucleus--even when tough calls were needed elsewhere.
With Orlando Brown Jr., Ted Karras, and Amarius Mims committed to at least another season, stability reigns in a league often marked by turnover and free agency upheaval.
For a franchise with Super Bowl aspirations, that kind of continuity is invaluable.
"We know what we have in this room," Mims said. "Now it's time to go prove it."
As the Bengals prepare to open the 2026 season later this year, all eyes will be on the offensive line. If Mims gets his wish for the same five starters to take the field, fans can feel confident that Joe Burrow's protection is secure.
For a quarterback of Burrow's caliber, that is the greatest gift the front office can provide.
Continuity. Consistency. Chemistry. The Bengals are betting those three words will make the difference between a playoff exit and hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. Amarius Mims is ready to lead the charge.
