The Cincinnati Bengals are dialing up veteran help up front, hosting Dalton Risner on Tuesday as they shore up the offensive line before the 2025 season. Risner, a 30-year-old guard, played for Minnesota in 2024 and started 19 games over the last two seasons, after four years with Denver. Cincinnati wants Burrow protected as he builds on an MVP-caliber season in which the team still missed the playoffs. A Risner addition would bring stability, leadership, and a trusted pass-blocker to an OL that needs to keep Burrow upright in a crowded AFC. This move could also influence the pursuing game plan for Week 1 against the Browns and beyond, potentially elevating the entire offense with a veteran presence up front.

Risner’s background reads as durable and versatile: Broncos second-round pick in 2019, 81 career games, and a recent run of 25 appearances with Minnesota. If he signs, Cincinnati would bolster protection schemes and create a security blanket for Burrow, allowing more time on play-action and quicker reads in pass situations. The potential impact isn’t just about one star lineman; it’s about turning a mid-season upgrade into a stable, season-long foundation for a team aiming to reclaim the playoffs in 2025.

Following the 2025 NFL draft, the Cincinnati Bengals find themselves with a substantial amount of cap space, allowing for potential free-agent acquisitions to bolster their roster. Among the intriguing options are guard Dalton Risner, who could compete for a starting role despite previous injury issues, and Brandon Scherff, a seasoned vet whose experience could greatly benefit the team. Safety Justin Simmons has expressed interest in joining the Bengals, while Julian Blackmon brings youthful prowess at the safety position. Asante Samuel Jr. could add depth at cornerback, offering upside despite injury concerns.

Dalton Risner, former Denver Broncos guard, recently defended Russell Wilson's reputation as a teammate amid perceptions that the quarterback was unpopular in the locker room. Risner, taking to TikTok, described Wilson as one of his favorite teammates, highlighting his work ethic and leadership. He noted that Wilson was always the first to arrive and the last to leave at the Broncos facility, countering narratives created by viral sideline incidents. Despite the drama, Risner’s comments paint Wilson in a positive light as he continues his career with the New York Giants after a turbulent stint in Denver.

The Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly eyeing a significant addition to their offensive front, as free agent guard Dalton Risner hints at a potential signing soon. While he has a possibility of returning to the Minnesota Vikings, the Bengals, along with the Denver Broncos, are on his radar. With the Bengals entering the draft seeking guard help, they’ve made minor moves like re-signing Cody Ford and adding Lucas Patrick. However, Risner, a 29-year-old former second-round pick with a history of starting games, could be a post-draft signing for a team wanting to bolster its offensive line.