As the Cincinnati Bengals navigate the 2026 NFL season, one consistent bright spot has emerged: right tackle Amarius Mims is playing practically perfect football. Through the first month of the season, Mims has shut down every pass rusher he has faced, including Pro Bowl talents like Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter of the Houston Texans, and most recently, T.J. Watt of the Pittsburgh Steelers. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, his performance has caught the eye of renowned offensive line evaluator Brandon Thorn, who ranks Mims among the top 5-6 right tackles in the league.
Shutting Down the Best
In the Bengals' Week 4 matchup against the Steelers, Mims went head-to-head with T.J. Watt, one of the most feared pass rushers in the NFL. Thorn counted 12 true drop-back, 1-on-1 reps where Mims stymied Watt, working high-side, down the middle, and inside. "This is a top 5-6 RT in just his 3rd season," Thorn tweeted on September 28, 2026. Such praise from a respected analyst underscores Mims' rapid ascent since being selected 18th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.
From Draft Steal to Cornerstone
When the Bengals drafted Mims, there were concerns about his injury history and lack of experience. However, as Reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, those worries have proven unfounded. Mims never suffered a major knee injury in college, and his SEC pedigree was evident. Now in his third season, he has silenced doubters and appears to have hit his high ceiling. Cincinnati may have landed the steal of the draft, and if Mims stays healthy, he could anchor the offensive line for years to come.
The Left Tackle Question
With Mims excelling at right tackle, speculation swirls about a potential move to left tackle. Current left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. has struggled against quicker rushers, though he remains a serviceable starter. The Bengals must weigh whether Mims can transition seamlessly and how much his next contract will cost. Elite right tackles command top dollar, but left tackles often reset the market. As highlighted on Vulius, this is a long-term dilemma, but for now, fans can relish Mims' dominance at his current position.
What's Next for Mims and the Bengals?
Mims' stellar play is a beacon of hope for a Bengals team with playoff aspirations. His ability to neutralize premier edge rushers gives quarterback Joe Burrow precious time to operate. If Mims continues this trajectory, he could earn All-Pro honors and a massive payday. For the latest NFL analysis and exclusive Bengals merchandise, stay tuned to Vulius.
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