Bengals Host Two Noteworthy Linemen Ahead of NFL Draft
The Cincinnati Bengals are continuing their pre-draft evaluations, bringing in two promising trench players for visits this week. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Miami offensive lineman Jalen Rivers is visiting Monday, followed by South Carolina defensive tackle T.J. Sanders on Tuesday.
Rivers is a compelling mid-round offensive line prospect, projected to go in the third or fourth round. He was a three-year starter at Miami, playing primarily at left tackle in a run-pass option-based Air Raid system. However, much of his 2024 film shows him at left guard. Despite dealing with injuries throughout his college career—including a leg injury last season and prior knee surgery in 2021—Rivers showed notable development, especially in his senior year and at the Senior Bowl.
Dane Brugler highlights Rivers’ size, arm length, and strength as key attributes. He has the tools to succeed as a guard in the NFL, though he needs to address issues with balance and technique. Brugler ranks him as the ninth-best guard in the draft class.
NFL analyst Lance Zierlein echoes the sentiment, noting Rivers’ ability to anchor against power rushers and his potential as an interior lineman. However, he also points out limitations in Rivers’ mobility and footwork, which may make him a better fit for certain blocking schemes.
The Bengals are actively searching for a starting guard, and Rivers appears to be a serious contender. Monday’s visit likely includes medical evaluations given his injury history.
Getting through Jalen Rivers film after seeing some things I liked from the Senior Bowl
I think he’s definitely going to be on the Bengals’ radar
Another really good pass protector with G/T flex, hits all the size thresholds, over 2000 collegiate snaps and only 4(!) penalties
— Draft Guy Jared (@DraftGuyJared) February 2, 2025
On the defensive side, T.J. Sanders is another name to watch. Ranked 70th on Brugler’s overall draft board, Sanders is a potential second-round pick who could bolster Cincinnati’s interior pass rush.
Brugler describes Sanders as a twitchy, long-limbed lineman with a powerful initial burst. He shows strength against the run and disruptive potential in the backfield. Over the last two seasons, Sanders recorded 93 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss, and 8.5 sacks.
Zierlein adds that Sanders is physically dominant with a quick punch and strong lower body. While he’s not elite off the snap, his strength and technique give him an edge as a gap disruptor. He fits multiple defensive schemes and could develop into a three-down lineman.
If the Bengals don’t address the defensive line early in the draft, Sanders would be a strong option on day two. Rivers, meanwhile, could be in play during rounds three or four.
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