Bengals Offensive Line Leads NFL in Pressure Prevention
Cincinnati allows the tenth fewest quarterback pressures and the seventh fewest sacks, driven by standout performances from Amarius Mims and Ted Karras.
By Layla Fontaine ·
The Cincinnati Bengals have allowed quarterback pressures at the tenth-lowest rate in the NFL through the first six games of the 2026 season. The unit has also permitted sacks at the seventh-lowest rate among all teams. These defensive statistics position the offensive line as a primary strength for the 4-2 squad ahead of Sunday's matchup against Tennessee.
Right tackle Amarius Mims, a first-round selection in the 2024 draft, has emerged as the focal point of the group. In his third year in the league, Mims has demonstrated a marked improvement in consistency. Offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher described the guard's development as remarkable because it has become commonplace for Mims to perform at a high level without requiring extensive explanation.
Pitcher noted that when reviewing film of the team's game against the Baltimore Ravens, Mims appeared barely visible on the screen. This was because the right tackle neutralized edge rushers far from the quarterback. Coach Zac Taylor called Mims the best tackle he has observed this year, citing his dominant play on the field.
Left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. provided stability on the other end of the line. In last week's contest against the Cleveland Browns, Brown faced former teammate Trey Hendrickson. Hendrickson recorded no sacks in that game and made only two hits on quarterback Joe Burrow. Brown expressed satisfaction with his performance and stated his intent to replicate that level of play regardless of the opponent.
Center Ted Karras, entering his 11th season in the league, has allowed only one sack this year. That single concession occurred in Week 2 against the Houston Texans when All-Pro edge rusher Will Anderson aligned over the center and executed an unorthodox play. Karras described his season as very solid and credited his communication and football intelligence for maintaining cohesion within the unit.
The offensive guard positions represent the most notable change for Cincinnati this year. The team has moved away from relying on untested rookies or veteran journeymen. Instead, they have secured stability with 2025 third-round pick Dylan Fairchild and re-signed veteran Dalton Risner. Both players have contributed to a unit that gelled quickly.
Risner praised offensive line coach Scott Peters for his player-centric approach. Risner noted that Peters has played and coached at the highest levels and cares deeply about his players. Peters' guidance has helped the group maintain discipline and focus throughout the early season.
Fairchild has reduced the number of negative plays in his second year in the NFL. As a rookie, he struggled with individual errors that led to turnovers and sacks. This season, he has focused on hand usage and technique. Fairchild stated that his ability to use his hands has grown significantly since training camp, allowing him to engage opponents more effectively.
The performance of the offensive line has directly supported the Bengals' passing attack. Cincinnati is throwing the ball at the fifth-highest rate in the league. Quarterback Joe Burrow holds the best completion percentage in the NFL. Karras attributed the unit's success to good rapport and hard work among the five linemen.
The Bengals will test this offensive line against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. The team enters the game with a 4-2 record and a defensive line that has consistently protected the quarterback. The statistical metrics indicate that the protection of Burrow remains a top-tier unit in the league.
