ESPN Names Two Bengals' Rookies Among Top-10 Impact Talents

 ESPN's Field Yates had two Bengals in his lists of 10 non-first round rookies who will have the most impact on their teams this coming season. Guard Dylan Fairchild checked in at No. 10 on the offensive side, and linebacker Demtrius Knights Jr. ranked fourth on the defensive side.

Cincinnati selected Fairchild with the 81st pick in the draft.

"The Bengals came into the draft with an obvious need at guard, using a pair of picks on Fairchild and Jalen Rivers in the fifth round," Yates wrote. "I view Fairchild as the superior prospect, and he should have the inside track to start right away for Cincinnati. He brings reliable pass protection -- he allowed pressure on 0.4% of his pass-block reps during the 2024 season -- and toughness. Fairchild rarely found himself out of position in college and has an excellent temperament. He plays every snap with a level of consistency that offensive line coaches love."

Knight has a clear starting path in the LB hierarchy, with Germaine Pratt not expected to return to the team. Cincinnati took him with the 49th pick in the draft.

"Cincinnati has worked to overhaul its defense this offseason and found a plug-and-play starter in Knight, whose hard-hitting, physical nature should bring an attitude adjustment to the Bengals' D," Yates wrote. "Knight finished his college career at South Carolina and was around the ball often. He had three forced fumbles, a pair of sacks, and an interception last season. Remember, Pratt requested a trade, too, so there could be plenty of snaps on the table for Knight."

The Bengals could have three or four rookies get starting-level snaps this fall.