CINCINNATI -- The Cincinnati Bengals entered the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft with a clear objective: strengthen the offensive line's interior and add a versatile, big-bodied wide receiver to complement their explosive passing attack. By the close of the round, they had done just that.
After executing a trade-back deal with the New York Jets early on Day 3, the Bengals used the No. 128 overall pick--acquired from that trade--to select Auburn center Connor Lew. Shortly thereafter, with the No. 140 pick, the Bengals added Georgia wide receiver Colbie Young. Confirmed by the team on April 25, 2026, the selections bolster Cincinnati's depth and talent in two critical offensive areas, building around franchise quarterback Joe Burrow.
Here is an in-depth look at the new Bengals additions and what they bring to the table.
Connor Lew: Solidifying the Center Position
Connor Lew, standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 305 pounds, is a seasoned SEC lineman who started 38 games over three years at Auburn. As a senior, he earned All-SEC honors while helping Auburn rank among the nation's top 20 rushing offenses in 2025. He is celebrated for his technical approach--leveraging effective hand placement, superior leverage, and a high football IQ.
Lew's game excels in consistency and technique rather than pure athleticism. On film, his ability to seal linebackers and execute combo blocks with precision stands out. He anchors the line in pass protection, adeptly managing stunts and blitz pickups. His style fits perfectly with the Bengals' need for dependable interior line play that protects Joe Burrow and opens lanes for the run game.
Bengals General Manager Duke Tobin commented on Lew's selection: "We wanted a presence in the middle who could compete immediately. Connor has the mindset and toughness that align with our culture."
With veteran center Ted Karras in the last year of his contract, Lew's addition is both strategic and forward-looking. Though initially expected to provide depth and developmental potential, Lew could challenge for a starting role during training camp given his pedigree. His versatility to play both center and guard adds flexibility to Cincinnati's offensive front, a valuable asset in the physically demanding AFC North.
Colbie Young: Elevating the Receiving Corps
At 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds, Colbie Young gives Cincinnati a new vertical threat and red-zone target. His journey to the NFL began at junior college before transferring to Georgia, where he made a strong impact over two seasons. Young recorded 74 receptions for 1,102 yards and 11 touchdowns, including a junior campaign with 47 catches for 678 yards and seven scores, drawing strong attention from NFL scouts.
Young's basketball background shows in his ability to high-point catches and box out defenders, making him a formidable jump-ball receiver. He excels on contested throws, back-shoulder passes, and sideline toe-tap catches. Despite his size, he runs crisp routes and possesses a deceptively quick 40-yard dash time in the low 4.5-second range.
Positioned alongside elite receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, Young's big-frame skill set offers a complementary threat. His presence forces opposing defenses to allocate more single coverage, potentially opening opportunities for the entire receiving unit. Head Coach Zac Taylor praised the pick: "Colbie brings a physical presence to the field. He's exactly the kind of weapon we want pushing vertically and winning contested catches."
Strategic Fit and Franchise Outlook
Heading into the latter rounds on Day 2 of the draft, the Bengals had already addressed key defensive needs with defensive back and pass-rusher picks. Offensively, the attack centers around Burrow supported by stars Chase and Higgins, with running back depth behind Joe Mixon.
Lew's selection shored up depth and future potential on the offensive line with a reliable, SEC-tested player capable of contributing early. His versatility also addresses the team's need for durable, swing interior linemen who can handle the AFC North's physical style.
Young's addition fills a void left by recent receiver changes and enhances the vertical passing game. He gives the Bengals a big-bodied option to thrive over the middle and in the red zone, fitting the team's offensive philosophy of spreading the field and creating mismatches.
Both picks share a common thread--they are disciplined, technically sound, and battle-tested players from the SEC, one of the most competitive conferences in college football. This background supports Cincinnati's expectations for immediate contributions from rookie players.
What Lies Ahead
The Bengals still possess multiple selections on Day 3 and will likely target tight end, safety, and defensive line depth to round out the roster ahead of training camp. The infusion of Connor Lew and Colbie Young signals a commitment to internal competition and bolstering key offensive roles.
Connor Lew's transition from Auburn's Plains to Cincinnati's gridiron begins now, while Colbie Young looks to carve out a role as a demanding matchup problem for defenses. Together, their arrival provides a clear message: the Bengals are building not just for today but for sustainable success.
As the draft continues, Bengals fans can expect further moves designed to complement the franchise's core and sustain the hope of championship contention.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Cincinnati Bengals continue to assemble their 2026 roster.
