In a disappointing Week 1 loss to the New England Patriots, the Cincinnati Bengals found a silver lining. Despite the offensive unit struggling to find a rhythm, the pass protection from the offensive line showed noticeable improvement compared to last season. Left guard Cordell Volson, now in his third year, was a standout performer, earning a Pro Football Focus grade of 79.0—ranking him as the 12th best guard in the league for Week 1.
While Volson and left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. impressed, the right side of the line was a weak spot. New free agent signing and former Patriot, Trent Brown, struggled significantly, surrendering four pressures and a sack. On one play, Brown, despite his 380-pound frame, was overpowered by a Patriots defender, leading to pressure on quarterback Joe Burrow.
Anyone who has watched Trent Brown seriously over the last couple of years expected him to be bad. Bengals fans were in my mentions about how much of an upgrade he is.
Goofy. pic.twitter.com/ns38NSwLJ3
— Christian Williams (@CWilliamsNFL) September 10, 2024
Fortunately for the Bengals, their long-term solution may arrive sooner than expected. In addition to Brown, Cincinnati drafted Amarius Mims from the University of Georgia with the 18th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Mims showed great promise during preseason before a pectoral injury sidelined him for Week 1. However, after participating in sled drills at practice, Mims was upgraded to questionable for the upcoming game against Kansas City, with a good chance of being cleared to play.
Amarius Mims is doing sled drills. Progress for the #Bengals first round pick🏈 pic.twitter.com/PzkqXMZnZS
— James Rapien (@JamesRapien) September 11, 2024
At 6’8” and 340 pounds, Mims has immense potential as a pass blocker. If Brown’s struggles continue, Mims may take over the starting role. Though it will take time for Mims to fully adjust to the NFL level, his size and athleticism could provide a significant upgrade to Cincinnati’s offensive line.
