Duke's Brian Parker joins the Bengals' offensive line. The versatile center offers depth and potential protection for Joe Burrow after being selected in the sixth round.
The Duke Blue Devils had a few players taken off the board in Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Cincinnati Bengals took the next former Blue Devils player, selecting center Brian Parker in the sixth round of the draft at No. 189.
The Bengals need depth on the offensive line as they look to protect quarterback Joe Burrow. Parker could be a key player on the interior offensive line in Cincinnati.
Scouting Report
Lance Zierlein of NFL Media thought Parker could go in the fourth or fifth round of the draft. The Bengals appear to have gotten good value by nabbing the center in the sixth round.
"Tackle-to-center prospect with well-composed frame, good body control and sound technique," Zierlein wrote. "Parker consistently centers his blocks and operates with inside hands/good grip strength. He gets to his landmarks under control as a move blocker, has average drive strength on gap-scheme blocks and constantly covers his target.
"His underhook punch has some pepper to it, but below-average length makes timing and anchor essential. He plays with a quality mirror and clearly sees rush games. Parker’s measurables are average but he plays like a future starting center with guard flexibility."
Duke offensive line coach Jeff Norrid praised Parker for his leadership skills. He thinks Parker can be consistent as a run and pass blocker.
"Brian’s leadership was extremely valuable not only to the offense but the entire team," Norrid said, via USA Today. "His consistency, durability, and physicality were a tremendous part of our success as a team...
"As a player in both run and pass protection, he is very savvy. In the run game, he understands leverage and is good with his hands. He has disciplined footwork that allows him to get in the right positions and play with power."
The Bengals have needed help on the offensive line for quite a few seasons. Parker will be a project player in Year 1, but he could develop into a solid starter in Cincinnati.