The second-round pick is terrorizing NFL backfields, trailing only one other rookie in quarterback pressures while evolving into a versatile, disruptive force for Cincinnati’s surging defensive front.
Former Texas A&M defensive standout Cashius Howell is wasting little time showing the Cincinnati Bengals why they selected him in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Although Howell has yet to record his first NFL sack, his impact as a pass rusher has been evident through the first two games of his professional career. According to Pro Football Focus, Howell has generated seven quarterback pressures, which ranks second among NFL rookies entering Week 3, only behind Jets young star David Bailey.
The production has been particularly encouraging considering Howell's role has already expanded within Cincinnati's defensive front.
Howell played 41 snaps in Cincinnati's Week 2 victory over the Houston Texans, giving him plenty of opportunities to attack the quarterback. He finished the game with five pressures, helping the Bengals consistently disrupt Houston's passing game during a 20-6 victory.
That performance helped push Howell's pressure total to seven for the season. His six quarterback hurries and one quarterback hit have come despite not yet finding his way into the sack column.
For a player who built his reputation at Texas A&M by consistently getting after opposing quarterbacks, the lack of a sack is unlikely to be a major concern at this stage.
Howell recorded 11.5 sacks during his final season with the Aggies while also producing 14 tackles for loss. His performance earned him SEC Defensive Player of the Year honors and made him one of the most productive pass rushers in college football. Cincinnati ultimately selected him with the No. 41 overall pick.
The Bengals appear to have a clear vision for how to maximize those pass-rushing skills.
Defensive coordinator Al Golden recently praised Howell's ability to generate pressure with his speed and dip while also pointing out that the rookie has shown the versatility to contribute in coverage and against the run.
Howell's early production also demonstrates that sacks are not the only way a young pass rusher can make an impact. Consistently forcing quarterbacks off their spot can create opportunities for teammates, something Howell already did against Houston.
With Cincinnati preparing for a Week 3 matchup against Pittsburgh, Howell will have another opportunity to chase his first professional sack.
Regardless of when that milestone arrives, his seven pressures through two games suggest the former Aggie has already begun establishing himself as a disruptive piece of the Bengals' defense.
