11 Best Bengals Players Ever

#11: Andrew Whitworth (2006 – 2016)

Position: Offensive Tackle
Height/Weight: 6’7″, 330 lbs

Andrew Whitworth was a cornerstone of the Bengals’ offensive line for over a decade, known for his exceptional pass-blocking, leadership, and durability. 

Drafted by Cincinnati in 2006, Whitworth quickly established himself as one of the top offensive tackles in the NFL, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections during his tenure with the Bengals. His ability to protect the quarterback’s blindside and open up lanes in the running game made him a critical piece of the Bengals’ offense. 

Off the field, Whitworth was respected for his leadership and mentorship, helping to guide younger players and setting a high standard for professionalism. His impact on the franchise was significant, and his legacy as one of the best linemen in Bengals history is well-deserved.

Ironically, he won his lone Super Bowl in his final season in the NFL with the Los Angeles Rams against his former team, the Bengals, in 2021.

Accolades/Stats: 3x Pro Bowl selection, 2x First-Team All-Pro

#10: Corey Dillon (1997 – 2003)

Position: Running Back
Height/Weight: 6’1″, 225 lbs

Corey Dillon was a dominant force in the Bengals’ backfield during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Known for his powerful running style, Dillon consistently ranked among the NFL’s top rushers, breaking tackles and gaining tough yards. 

He set multiple franchise records, including the single-game rushing record of 278 yards in 2000, which was an NFL record at the time. Despite playing on struggling Bengals teams, Dillon’s individual brilliance shone through, earning him three Pro Bowl selections during his time in Cincinnati. 

He left the Bengals as the franchise’s all-time leading rusher and remains one of the best running backs in team history.

Accolades/Stats: 3x Pro Bowl selection, 8,061 rushing yards, 45 rushing touchdowns with the Bengals.

#9: Carson Palmer (2003 – 2010)

Position: Quarterback
Height/Weight: 6’5″, 235 lbs

Carson Palmer was the face of the Bengals’ franchise during the 2000s, leading the team to its first playoff appearance in 15 years. 

Drafted first overall in 2003, Palmer quickly developed into one of the league’s top quarterbacks, known for his strong arm, accuracy, and poise under pressure. He earned Pro Bowl selections and led the Bengals to two AFC North titles during his tenure. 

Palmer’s connection with receivers like Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh helped revitalize the Bengals’ offense. Although his time in Cincinnati ended on a sour note, Palmer’s impact on the franchise was significant, and he remains one of the best quarterbacks in team history.

Accolades/Stats: 2x Pro Bowl selection, over 22,000 passing yards, 154 touchdown passes with the Bengals.

#8: Isaac Curtis (1973 – 1984)

Position: Wide Receiver
Height/Weight: 6’0″, 192 lbs

Isaac Curtis was a game-changing wide receiver who brought speed, agility, and reliable hands to the Bengals’ offense in the 1970s. 

Curtis revolutionized the wide receiver position with his ability to stretch the field and make big plays, earning four Pro Bowl selections during his career. His impact was so profound that the NFL introduced the “Isaac Curtis Rule,” limiting contact by defensive backs beyond five yards. 

Curtis was a key contributor to the Bengals’ success in the 1970s and early 1980s, including their first Super Bowl appearance in 1981. He finished his career as the Bengals’ all-time leading receiver and remains one of the most respected players in team history.

Accolades/Stats: 4x Pro Bowl selection, 7,101 receiving yards, 53 touchdown receptions.

#7: Willie Anderson (1996 – 2007)

Position: Offensive Tackle
Height/Weight: 6’5″, 340 lbs

Willie Anderson was a dominant presence on the Bengals’ offensive line for over a decade, known for his size, strength, and exceptional pass-blocking skills. 

Anderson was one of the best right tackles in the NFL during his career, earning four Pro Bowl selections and three First-Team All-Pro honors. He played a crucial role in protecting the Bengals’ quarterbacks and paving the way for the running game, consistently shutting down some of the league’s top pass rushers. 

Anderson’s durability and consistency made him a cornerstone of the Bengals’ offense, and he remains one of the greatest offensive linemen in team history.

Accolades/Stats: 4x Pro Bowl selection, 3x First-Team All-Pro

#6: Ken Riley (1969 – 1983)

Position: Cornerback
Height/Weight: 5’11”, 181 lbs

Ken Riley was a ball-hawking cornerback who spent his entire 15-year career with the Bengals, becoming one of the most prolific interceptors in NFL history. Known for his intelligence, anticipation, and ability to make plays on the ball, Riley recorded 65 career interceptions, which ranks among the most in NFL history. 

Despite his impressive statistics, Riley was often overlooked during his playing career, never earning a Pro Bowl selection, but his contributions to the Bengals’ defense were undeniable. 

Riley was a key figure in the Bengals’ early success and played a significant role in their Super Bowl XVI appearance. His legacy was finally recognized with his posthumous induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023.

Accolades/Stats: 65 interceptions, 5 defensive touchdowns, Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (2023).

#5: A.J. Green (2011 – 2020)

Position: Wide Receiver
Height/Weight: 6’4″, 210 lbs

A.J. Green was a dynamic playmaker and one of the most consistent wide receivers in the NFL during his time with the Bengals. Drafted fourth overall in 2011, Green immediately made an impact, earning Pro Bowl honors in each of his first seven seasons. 

Known for his exceptional route running, leaping ability, and reliable hands, Green became the go-to target for Bengals quarterbacks, particularly Andy Dalton. 

Green ranks second in Bengals history in receiving yards, receptions, and touchdowns, trailing only Chad Johnson in all three categories. His ability to make acrobatic catches and his knack for coming through in clutch situations made him one of the most feared receivers in the league.

Accolades/Stats: 7x Pro Bowl selection, over 9,400 receiving yards, 65 touchdown receptions with the Bengals.

#4: Chad Johnson (Ochocinco) (2001 – 2010)

Position: Wide Receiver
Height/Weight: 6’1″, 188 lbs

Chad Johnson, also known as Ochocinco, was one of the most electrifying and charismatic players in Bengals history. 

Known for his incredible speed, precise route running, and ability to make highlight-reel catches, Johnson was a constant threat to opposing defenses. His personality off the field was just as dynamic, with his colorful celebrations and outspoken nature making him a fan favorite. 

Johnson became the first player in Bengals history to lead the NFL in receiving yards, achieving this feat in 2006 with 1,369 yards. He holds numerous franchise records, including most career receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns.

His contributions to the Bengals’ offense were pivotal in the team’s resurgence in the mid-2000s.

Accolades/Stats: 6x Pro Bowl selection, 4x First-Team All-Pro, Bengals all-time leader in receptions (751), receiving yards (10,783), and receiving touchdowns (66).

#3: Boomer Esiason (1984 – 1992, 1997)

Position: Quarterback
Height/Weight: 6’5″, 224 lbs

Boomer Esiason was the leader of the Bengals’ offense during one of the most successful periods in the franchise’s history. 

Known for his strong arm, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure, Esiason led the Bengals to Super Bowl XXIII and won the NFL MVP award in 1988. 

His deep connection with his receivers and his ability to orchestrate the Bengals’ high-powered offense made him one of the top quarterbacks of his era. Esiason’s contributions to the Bengals extended beyond the field, as he became a beloved figure in Cincinnati for his philanthropy and community involvement.

Accolades/Stats: 1988 NFL MVP, 3x Pro Bowl selection, over 27,000 passing yards and 187 touchdowns with the Bengals.

#2: Ken Anderson (1971 – 1986)

Position: Quarterback
Height/Weight: 6’2″, 212 lbs

Ken Anderson is widely regarded as the greatest quarterback in Bengals history and one of the most underrated quarterbacks in NFL history. Known for his accuracy, intelligence, and calm under pressure, Anderson led the Bengals to their first Super Bowl appearance in 1981, the same year he was named NFL MVP.

Anderson was a master of the West Coast offense, excelling in short, precise passes and making smart decisions with the football. He finished his career as the Bengals’ all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns, and his impact on the franchise is still felt today. 

Anderson’s contributions to the Bengals were finally recognized with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023.

Accolades/Stats: 1981 NFL MVP, 4x Pro Bowl selection, Bengals all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns, Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (2023).

#1: Anthony Muñoz (1980 – 1992)

Position: Offensive Tackle
Height/Weight: 6’6″, 278 lbs

Anthony Muñoz is not only the greatest player in Bengals history but is also widely regarded as one of the best offensive linemen in NFL history. 

Known for his exceptional athleticism, technique, and consistency, Muñoz was the cornerstone of the Bengals’ offensive line for over a decade. He protected the blindside of Bengals quarterbacks and was instrumental in the team’s success during the 1980s, including their Super Bowl XVI and XXIII appearances. 

Muñoz’s dominance was recognized with 11 consecutive Pro Bowl selections and nine First-Team All-Pro honors. His contributions to the game were honored with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998, and he remains the standard by which all offensive tackles are measured.

Accolades/Stats: 11x Pro Bowl selection, 9x First-Team All-Pro, Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (1998).