Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Key Takeaways
- ViolentUpgrade for Bengals as they host free agent guard Dalton Risner, signaling a focus on strengthening their offensive line for the 2025 season.
- Dalton Risner, age 30, brings 81 career starts, veteran savvy, and durability, having played primarily for the Denver Broncos and the Vikings.
- The Bengals are actively assessing Risner, who is among the Top 100 available free agents, to add depth and potential starting talent.
- The move underscores the Bengals’ strategy to combine veteran experience with youthful energy, enhancing quarterback protection and run-blocking.
Table of Contents
Bengals Host Dalton Risner — What It Means for the 2025 Season
What This Means for Fans and the Team
Bengals Host Dalton Risner — What It Means for the 2025 Season
The Cincinnati Bengals are taking a crucial step this offseason by hosting free agent guard Dalton Risner for a visit. This move has ignited buzz around the NFL community, signaling the Bengals’ serious intent to strengthen their offensive line as they gear up for a competitive 2025 season [0].
Who is Dalton Risner?
Dalton Risner, 30, is an experienced guard known for his reliability and strong play. Drafted in the second round by the Denver Broncos in 2019 out of Kansas State, Risner completed a four-year rookie contract before testing free agency. After signing with the Vikings in 2023, he played 10 games in 2024 with 8 starts at right guard [1].
With 81 career starts under his belt, Risner brings veteran savvy and durability to the table, qualities highly valued in offensive linemen who protect quarterbacks and pave paths for the run game [2] [4].
Why the Bengals?
The Bengals have been targeting free agents like Risner to plug gaps and maintain a championship-caliber roster. They need to solidify their offensive line ahead of a season where every incremental improvement counts. Risner’s visit is a sign they are actively vetting top free agent talent to shore up those critical positions [4].
Notably, Risner is included in the Top 100 available free agents this year—a testament to his skill and value [0].
What This Means for Fans and the Team
For Bengals fans, the possibility of adding Risner is exciting—offensive line upgrades have a direct impact on quarterback protection and run-blocking effectiveness, both of which can translate to more wins.
For the team, it reflects a proactive approach to free agency by seeking experienced, proven talent rather than relying solely on developing younger players.
Looking Ahead
As the Bengals continue to host talented free agents like Risner, their roster strategy appears focused on balancing veteran presence with youthful energy. Fans should watch closely as these visits often precede key signings that define the team’s competitive outlook.
Stay tuned for updates as Dalton Risner’s visit unfolds and the Bengals’ free agency moves become clearer—this development could be a key piece in their 2025 NFL puzzle.
FAQ
What are Dalton Risner’s strengths?
Risner is known for his reliability, durability, and experience in protecting quarterbacks and run blocking, making him a valuable asset for teams seeking to bolster their offensive line.
Could Risner be a starter for the Bengals?
While the visit indicates serious interest, potential signing as a starter would depend on team needs and Risner’s fit during negotiations. His veteran experience makes him a strong candidate for either starting or providing valuable depth.